Tall Feathers Story
Tall Feathers emerged in a vivid dream experienced by James Ziegler, where he envisioned a collective healing project that involved crafting tall feathers to celebrate the spirits of those involved. Recognizing the cultural significance of feathers, James, as a white male Canadian, understood the importance of seeking guidance from Indigenous Elders before moving forward. When he shared this vision with Patricia Lortie, an artist at KOAC, she immediately recognized its value and encouraged him to connect with an Elder to discuss the idea further. Patricia’s long-time friend, Penny Morelyle, has collaborated with Harley Crowshoe for over a decade, innovating health care practices alongside Indigenous peoples. Penny introduced Harley to our vision, and together we shared the concept of Tall Feathers. This meeting sparked a bond of friendship and a sense of kinship among us. A dedicated core group has since formed to establish Tall Feathers as a not-for-profit organization, and we are thrilled to see it progressing with the blessings of the Elders. During a ceremonial gathering, Elder Murice Little Wolf bestowed upon our organization the name Píítaá Ikkimanááni, meaning eagle feather. Since the winter of 2022, our core group has been diligently developing the processes and practices that will shape Tall Feathers. At every step, Elder Harley Crowshoe has infused sacred ceremonies and wisdom to guide our journey.
From forest ceremonies before we gather saplings to rituals and the sharing of knowledge prior to workshops, we are deeply grateful for his insights and for viewing Tall Feathers through an Indigenous lens. Guided by Elders and local artists, participants are invited to share their stories through the design and creation of the feathers. Each workshop begins with a traditional ceremony, culminating in the celebration of the completed feathers with songs and drumming. By acknowledging our shared humanity, we lay the groundwork for reconciliation. The journey of Tall Feathers transcends mere artistry; it is about weaving together the threads of community, culture, and healing. Each feather crafted stands as a testament to the stories shared and the connections forged, reminding us of the vital importance of listening and learning from one another. Through this collaborative process, we honor the past while embracing the future, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous wisdom and its relevance in today’s world.Guided by Elders and local artists, participants share their stories through the design and creation of the feathers.
When we recognize our shared humanity, we find the ground work for reconciliation
Our Journey and Mission
At Tall Feathers, we are committed to fostering Truth and Reconciliation through the arts. Based in Calgary, our nonprofit organization is led by a dedicated team including James Ziegler, Indigenous Elder Harley Crowshoe, artist Patricia Lortie, knowledge keeper Chelsea Crowshoe, indigeous advocate Penny Morelyle and videographer Alan Fortune. Together, we aim to bridge cultural gaps by inviting individuals to engage with Indigenous wisdom and share their personal stories through the creation of feather art. Our workshops provide a respectful space for dialogue and cultural exchange, encouraging participants to recognize our shared humanity and the importance of reconciliation. Join us on this transformative journey as we celebrate the beauty of cultural connection and the power of storytelling.
