Photographer's work celebrates Indigenous identity at Ryerson University

Hanging above the west entrance of Ryerson University's library is a new piece of art that photographer Nadya Kwandibens hopes will sparka conversation.

"I want people to sort of look at it and say, 'What is she wearing?' Have those questions and find out more about Indigenous culture," Kwandibens said.

The portrait, whichwill be up at the university for the next five years, is part of a series by Kwandibenscalled Concrete Indians.

"It's essentially a series about decolonization, photographing sense of belonging and basically asks the question what does it mean and what does it look like to be Indigenous in the city," she told CBC's Our Toronto.

WATCH |Watch Talia Ricci's full interview with Nadya Kwandibens for CBC's Our Toronto:

Photographer's work celebrates Indigenous identity at Ryerson University

4 years ago

Duration 4:22

Hanging above the west entrance of Ryerson University's library is a new piece of art that photographer Nadya Kwandibens hopes sparks a conversation. Talia Ricci learns the story behind the image.

The large-scale image at Ryerson shows dancer Tee Lyn Duke at Spadina subway station on her way to rehearse with her dance troupe. Kwandibens says Dukewas often questioned about what she was wearing while riding the TTC, and that was why they chose thelocation.

"She said she always feels really empowered to beAnishinaabe because of that," Kwandibenssaid.

• Photographer Nadya Kwandibens creates positive imagery of Indigenous peoples

Kwandibens says it's very meaningful to her that her work will be on display for thousands to see over the next few years.

"For younger generations to see that, students coming in and out, it's really empowering and it's powerful," she said, adding that her hopeis to see more Indigenous photographers showcasing their talents.

Watch Our Toronto Saturdays andSundays at noon, Mondays at 11 a.m.

"Indigenous people are here. We always have been, right?So to presence ourselves more prominently within the community, within the city, is really exciting."

From Monday, Sept. 21 toFriday, Sept. 25, Ryerson University is hosting an online Indigenous Education Week,which will include its first digital pow wow and and online market.