Canada Post recently unveiled a new stamp in Ottawa, honouring Métis artist and environmentalist Christi Belcourt. Belcourt is known for her detailed paintings inspired by Métis floral beadwork, which celebrate nature and advocate for land and water protection as well as Indigenous culture and language. The stamp is one of three Indigenous Leaders stamps released on June 21, part of Canada Post’s ongoing series recognizing Indigenous leaders.
Born in Scarborough, Ontario in 1966 and raised in Ottawa, Christi Belcourt is a descendant of the Métis community of Manitow Sâkahikan (Lac Ste. Anne) in Alberta. She is renowned for her large floral paintings inspired by traditional Métis beadwork, celebrating her heritage and the natural world. Her work has been exhibited across North America and is part of the permanent collections of major Canadian galleries, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Gabriel Dumont Institute. She also designed a stained-glass window, Giniigaaniimenaaning (Looking Ahead), in honour of residential school Survivors, installed at the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa.
One of her most significant works is Walking With Our Sisters, a memorial installation of over 2,000 pairs of beaded moccasin tops honouring missing or murdered Indigenous women and children. Belcourt co-founded the Onaman Collective, a community group supporting land-based Indigenous practices and language revitalization.
Belcourt has received numerous awards, including the Jim Brady Memorial Medal of Excellence (2023), the Governor General’s Innovation Award (2016), and the Ontario Arts Council Aboriginal Arts Award (2014). She also holds honorary doctorates from Algoma University and Wilfrid Laurier University.
Belcourt admitted feeling surreal about being featured on a stamp, originally wanting only her artwork to be showcased. She emphasized the importance of speaking out against war and genocide, urging everyone to use their voices for the sake of future generations and the environment.
Reflecting on the significance of showcasing Indigenous art and culture, Cassidy Caron, President of the Métis National Council, praised Canada Post for highlighting leaders like Belcourt on stamps, promoting awareness and appreciation of Indigenous contributions across the country.
In her closing remarks, Belcourt tearfully thanked Canada Post for the honour, acknowledging the importance of recognizing both living and deceased Indigenous leaders, such as Josephine Mandamin, through such platforms.
Source: Canada Post
