b'SUCCESS STORYCultural Connections through ArtCelebrating the success of Tayler SchenkeveldT ayler Schenkeveld is a Mtis artist and art therapist.Institute in Nelson, B.C. It was during her time there that She was born and raised on Treaty 1 Territory in Win- she gained the knowledge and skills she needed to open nipeg but has since moved to Calgary, Alta. on Trea- Sage and Cedar Art Therapy. While going to school, she ty 7 Territory. Tayler creates fine art under the name Taylerwas able to reconnect with her culture as a Mtis woman Schenkeveld Art. As a practicing art therapist, she alsoand learn more about who she is as an Indigenous person. works for her own centre, Sage and Cedar Art Therapy.These experiences fueled a passion in Tayler to help others As a fine artist, Tayler creates original pieces and prints forexperience the same kind of re-engagement and healing display and sale. In her work, she explores themes of be- that art therapy brought her. Going to school also allowed longing and cultural connection. Through her work at Sageher to produce her own artwork and explore a new style of and Cedar Art Therapy, she supports clients in utilizing theart that she now sells through Tayler Schenkeveld Art.creative process of art as a vehicle to improve ones physi- Tayler is currently back in school working towards a mas-cal, emotional, spiritual and mental health.ters degree in psychology, where her goal is to become a Art has always been a big part of Taylers life, which is whyregistered psychologist so that she can expand her profes-she decided to pursue a diploma at the Kutenai Art Therapysional skills. Before launching her own private practice, Tayler worked as an Indigenous cultural support specialist. As a cultural support specialist, she was able to bring art therapy to Want to make a living your way? the agency, doing different group and individual work with Indigenous peoples and helping them reconnect with their Grow your local economy? culture. With the experience she gained, Tayler was able to launch her own practice. Though the COVID-19 pandem-We offer free guidance & resourcesic hit right at the launch of her business, Tayler was able to start your own co-operative. to run it in a different capacity. She was still able to offer people a chance to engage in art therapy by offering online sessions and providing them with the support they needed. To learn more, visit yourwaytogether.ca It is important to Tayler to incorporate cultural aspects into 306-382-4410 her business, such as ceremony and smudging and healing circles. Her hope for the business is to speak to culture, putting it at the forefront of her business and helping peo-ple re-engage with their culture.20INDIGENOUS PROSPERITYIssue #2, 2023'