Indigenous art on Edmonton bus meant to spread stories across city

Edmonton Transit Service partnered with the Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors centre to create a new Indigenous bus wrap design.

Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) on Wednesday unveiled a newly beautified bus wrapped in Indigenous art.

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The design inspired by local Indigenous seniors depicts sweetgrass, a campfire gathering, aurora borealis, and a teepee using bright, bold colours.

Inside, the bus contains information about the Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre, which partnered on the project and which offers cultural and accessible support services.

The centre’s executive director called the bus’ unveiling a proud moment.

“The design reflects the spirit of gathering, healing, and cultural strength with colours of the northern lights, the warmth of a fire, and the voices of our community woven together,” Deborah Rose said in a statement.

“This bus will not only carry people across the city, but it will also carry our stories, our teachings, and our commitment to making Edmonton a place where Indigenous seniors are seen, respected and celebrated.”

The city says the artwork is part of its ongoing reconciliation work and reflects its commitment to supporting and building strong relationships with Indigenous people.

“We are honoured to see this bus on Edmonton streets. Our hope is that local Indigenous peoples see their voices and cultures reflected in this design, and that all Edmontonians are reminded this is Treaty 6 Territory and we are all Treaty people,” said Sarah Feldman, acting ETS branch manager.

The bus will be used by ETS immediately on multiple routes across the city, as well as community charters.