Mural of Sisiyutł by Alex Taylor-McCallum

Cortes Island School was honoured to welcome Alex Taylor‑McCallum, a Kwakwaka’wakw and Nuu‑chah‑nulth artist, who created a powerful mural on the wall beside the blacktop last week. The project was supported with help from Métis artist Molly Long, whose assistance contributed to the design and completion of the work. Alex is known for using public art to share Indigenous stories, teachings, and cultural presence in public spaces.

The mural features a Sisiyutł (also known as I‑Hos in the K’ómoks tradition), a powerful double‑headed sea serpent. Often depicted on house fronts, poles, and ceremonial objects, the Sisiyutł represents transformation, protection, strength, and balance. Balance is a central teaching reflected in the image, expressed through the mirrored heads and the single, unified body – symbolizing harmony between opposing forces, wellbeing, and right relationship with the world. This teaching was a particularly important aspect of the mural for Alex. Many people recognize the Sisiyutł from coastal art, including its presence on BC Ferries.

Throughout the project, Alex welcomed questions from students and engaged openly with their curiosity.  The work was largely completed after school hours, allowing students to return each day to see how the mural had evolved. 

After the mural was completed, Alex spoke with students and invited guests – including Klahoose Chief Kevin Peacey and Klahoose Elders Jessie Louie and Norman Harry – about the finished work and his journey as an artist. He shared that although he was not raised with traditional language or cultural teachings, art became a later pathway for connection. He spoke about a family member’s collection of Indigenous art from coastal British Columbia that deeply inspired him, and shared how humbled he feels to make a living through creative work. Alex also performed a Sisiyutł  themed rap, using music as another way to share his story and voice.

This mural is a meaningful and lasting addition to Cortes Island School, reflecting a shared commitment to learning, respect, balance, and Indigenous presence within the community.

If you’d like to learn more about Alex Taylor‑McCallum and his work, you can read the article published by The Tyee here: https://thetyee.ca/Culture/2023/01/18/Meet-Artist-Indigenizing-Victoria-Streets/

Design by Ranae Close