Artistic representations of veterans are one way to commemorate their service. Indigenous artist Mike Holden, of the Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan, depicts Chief Joseph Dreaver (1881–1978). Chief Dreaver was a decorated soldier who served in both world wars. He lost two brothers in the First World War and a son in the Second World War. Throughout his life, he was a community leader.
The artist portrays Chief Dreaver in a traditional war bonnet, with his medal set displayed prominently, giving equal measure to his roles as Chief of the Mistawasis and a veteran. The use of a Canadian flag as a backdrop represents Chief Dreaver’s patriotism at a time when Indigenous peoples were not given the same rights as other Canadians. Finally, Holden depicted a heart at the centre of the uniform as a symbol of Chief Dreaver’s forgiveness with regard to the State.
