Local artist Delreé Dumont, from Onion Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan took home the 2025 Governor General’s Literary Award for her art in This Land Is a Lullaby, written by Tonya Simpson.
With her blend of pointillism and realism artwork, Dumont weaves a prairie evening throughout the story of a mother sharing Cree knowledge and songs with her infant.
“I was on a walk with my dog when [winning] finally hit me, and the whole thing’s been pretty surreal feeling,” Dumont said, adding she took time on the walk to lay tobacco down and give thanks to lands that have been the heart of her creations.
“It’s more than inspiration, it’s who we are. Our relationship with the land isn’t just about beauty or tradition, it’s our survival,” Dumont explained when asked how the prairie and mountain landscapes have both shaped her work. Dumont’s connection to the prairies has led to an appreciation for the space and movement found throughout the landscape.
“They stretch out forever, open and breathing,” Dumont said. She focused on bringing that life and warmth into This Land Is a Lullaby, showcasing the tenderness found in Simpson’s writing to her daughter. Dumont dedicated her artwork in the book to her own mother.
“Receiving this award feels like she’s right there beside me, a full circle moment filled with love and gratitude,” she said
Dumont is already hard at work on her next projects, contracted out for another upcoming children’s book and working on a mural at Arrow Heights Elementary School. Showcasing the nature surrounding Revelstoke and incorporating animal teachers the students have been learning about, the mural will highlight the school’s goals.
Her focus on artwork for children is partially out of gratitude, she explained.
“If my art can help them see the beauty, strength and love that’s already around all of us then I feel I’ve done what I set out to do.”
Dumont has become a staple presence in the school while working on the mural, welcoming students to ask questions about her technique and process.
“The kids can see her in action and she’d allowed them to take part,” Pam Mair, Arrow Heights Elementary School principal said, adding students can often be found sitting around Dumont’s working area during school breaks to watch her work.
Signatures of students who have helped can be found hidden throughout the mural and Dumont is quick to point out where students have contributed some dots to the piece.
“I want to give them the opportunity the same way the schools are giving me the opportunity to showcase my work,” Dumont said.
You can find copies of This Land is a Lullaby at Fable Book Parlour and through Orca Book Publishers.
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