Elevating Indigenous Voices

On National Indigenous Peoples Day, Blue unveiled the Elevate | Mbin’ge art installation. Created by Anishinaabe artist, Kathryn Corbiere (One Kwe), this monumental structure stands approximately 22 feet high at the top of the mountain. Elevate invites visitors to walk around, through, and underneath its space that pays homage to Indigenous heritage and teachings of the land. It is essential to acknowledge that Blue Mountain Resort resides on the traditional territory of the Anishinabek Nation: The People of the Three Fires known as Ojibway (Chippewas), Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations, now known as the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. This acknowledgement serves as a reminder of the profound cultural history and ongoing presence of the Indigenous culture and peoples within the area. To read our Land Acknowledgement, please visit our page here. At first glance, Elevate captures your attention with its distinct mountain shape, reminiscent of a traditional Indigenous dwelling, such as a wigwam or teepee. This intentional design choice seeks to honour and acknowledge the significance of the location it occupies, bridging the past and present. However, unlike traditional structures, Elevate does not have walls. Instead, it warmly welcomes visitors into an open and inclusive space, encouraging reflection and learning. The absence of walls symbolizes the breaking down of barriers and extends invitation for individuals to engage with the teachings and values represented by each pillar. The installation is comprised of seven pillars, each representing one of the seven sacred teachings rooted in Indigenous cultures. Symbolized by different animals, these teachings include Love, Wisdom, Respect, Truth, Humility, Honesty, and Bravery, and facilitate a deeper understanding to foster a connection between the people and the land. We invite guests to visit this new installation at the top of the Mountain on the Timeline Trail this summer, and through seasons beyond. We thank Alterra Mountain Co. and Kathryn Corbiere for their support on this project.