Genetikos II

Richard Heikkilä-Sawan

In June and August 2023, Richard Heikkilä-Sawan’s artwork, Genetikos II, was featured on the Kipnes Lantern to celebrate National Indigenous History Month and Pride. 

Richard Heikkilä-Sawan is a Two-Spirit artist known for his vibrant and thought-provoking artwork. Born in Vancouver, he was adopted into a Mennonite family, unaware of his Indigenous heritage until later in life. Richard explores themes of identity, race, and social ideologies, often incorporating LGBTQ pride colours. His work, influenced by artists like Durham and Monkman, employs geometric shapes and Gestalt principles to engage viewers. Richard’s art aims to evoke new insights and inspire change, challenging the notion of “coming out” within a strict religious upbringing. 

The exterior view of the National Arts Centre (NAC) from Elgin Street reveals the iconic Kipnes Lantern prominently featuring the artwork "Genetikos II." The lantern showcases the intricate and multicolored indigenous mask, creating a capti
Genetikos II on the Kipnes Lantern. David Leclerc
The exterior view of the National Arts Centre (NAC) from Elgin Street reveals the iconic Kipnes Lantern prominently featuring the artwork "Genetikos II." The lantern showcases the intricate and multicolored indigenous mask, creating a capti
Genetikos II on the Kipnes Lantern. David Leclerc
The exterior view of the National Arts Centre (NAC) from Elgin Street reveals the iconic Kipnes Lantern prominently featuring the artwork "Genetikos II." The lantern showcases the intricate and multicolored indigenous mask, creating a capti
Genetikos II on the Kipnes Lantern. David Leclerc

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