Walk of the Nations Logo
By Maynard Johnny
ABOUT THE LOGO
The logo represents ‘taking the first step’. Life poses so many challenges and taking that ‘first step’ is so important. The WALK OF THE NATIONS is a step towards acceptance, understanding and respect for all peoples in the Cowichan Region.
“I'm hoping that this logo will convey to people to take the first step, to come together and show that we are all people and we can all get along!”
- Maynard Johnny Jr.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LOGO
Back in 2007, Maynard Johnny Jr. (logo artist) and Ryan Bruce (Walk co-chair) were disappointed and hurt to see a new ‘game’ on Facebook. The ‘game’ was about ‘counting Indians’ on the Silver Bridge in Duncan, B.C. The creators of the ‘game’ said it was supposed to be humorous, but it became very racial and hurtful to many members of this community. In response to this negative ‘game’, Maynard and Ryan decided to plan a walk on the Silver Bridge. Everyone in the community was invited to participate to show that community can come together in a positive way. The group went out for a walk on the Bridge a couple of times, but unfortunately hardly anyone showed up.
The next year, following the NAIG games, plans for a larger community walk of acceptance, understanding and respect began—the Walk of the Nations was born, building on the friendships and partnerships that were created during the summer of 2008!
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Maynard Johnny, born in 1973, is a primarily self-taught artist who has been studying and working since the age of 17.
He has been inspired by many NWC artists and particularly admires Robert Davidson, the late great Art Thompson, and Mark Henderson. Maynard is principally involved in graphic work, but also designs and creates jewellery in silver and gold. Throughout his career Maynard has also been interested in, and enjoyed working with wood. He has carved a number of masks and panels.
His designs have garnered him a number of awards in logo contests for companies and Native organizations. Maynard has designed a number of logos for many Native organizations as well as other companies or businesses. He was also privileged enough to design a 8-ft. by 3-ft. sculpture of a salmon that was donated to the World Trade Centre in New York to honour those lost in the 9/11 tragedy.
Maynard has been in a number of exhibitions including a Miniature Show at Alcheringa Gallery, a Young Bloods Show at the Douglas Reynolds Gallery, and a Salish Show with Charles Elliot, as well as a few small solo shows. Maynard hopes to continue sharing his culture through other mediums such as precious metals and wood in the near future.
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