b'PRODUCTIONa member of the Michel First Nationin Central Alberta, it was an opportunity to cast a net for Indigenous artists, consultants and other TV production professionals.But first, the Bears Lair needed a place to call home. Enter Shain Jackson, brother of the shows founder and a former Indigenous rights lawyer who left his practice to pursue a passion for art by opening Spirit Works Gallery in North Vancouver. Soon after hearing of his sisters plans, Shain didnt think twice about donating his studio space and expertise to provide a one-of-a-kind set for the debut season. My sister BEATING THE DRUM is one of my favourite people on the entire planet and I believe in what shes doing with this show, so I wanted The Bears Lair production team welcomed community consultants andto help stretch her budget as much as members like Chief Gibby Jacob, hereditary Chief and member of the SquamishI could, he shares. Nation, to the set.Geena [Jackson, the show founder] is one in a million in my mind, says Jacob.Shain worked with Mosaics crew to She phoned and said there was some nervousness on set. She asked if I couldtransform his Spirit Works showroom come down, bring my drum, share a song and opening prayer, and just shareinto a TV set and production space. some laughter to lighten everything up, and I was happy to.From the start, the goal was to create an environment that was unique to the Jacob was also involved in giving the final prize and honouring the winnerJacksons Coast Salish culture. That with a blanket ceremony. He says he was happy to join the production for theinspiration was integrated throughout morning of its first shoot, noting, The Bears Lair show is a historical show thatthe set with crafts and antiquities will show the world that we can be as successful as any other race or people. from Spirit Works collection, including baskets woven by the siblings grandmother. It also features Coast Salish artwork of canoes and longhouses, as well as a Spindle Whorl handcrafted by Shain. Coast Salish people are renowned weavers and the Spindle whorl represents the idea of being Specializing In: welcoming, coming together, taking the very best of what everyone has toTURNAROUNDS offer from diverse cultures and races,MAINTENANCE and then accepting these teachings and gifts to make ourselves stronger,TORQUING & TENSIONING explains Shain. And thats what thisTOWERS show is about. Were creating aBUNDLE PULLING social fabric and coming together in cooperation, which reflects a lot of ourPRESSURE WELDING Indigenous values. INSULATION VESSEL REPAIRS From first set-up to final takedown, Shains contributions were instrumental in helping Mosaic Entertainment make 780-554-3680 the most of its modest budget. As Beaudoin recalls: We did have an experienced production designer who www.mesmechanical.ca helped to put everything together, but Shain was key in bringing the West Coast Indigenous feel to the design.46A CCAB PUBLICATION2022'