The Bishop Strachan School (BSS), along with special guests, celebrated the dedication of a new stained glass work in its chapel, designed by acclaimed Inuit artist Ningiukulu "Ning" Teevee. Teevee's original drawing depicts the Inuit legend of the Owl and the Raven, a story of patience, transformation and wisdom, while honouring the strength of Inuit storytelling and the resilience of Indigenous cultures.
Teevee's vision was expertly translated for stained glass by Canadian artist Sue Obata of Obata Studios, and the fabrication was completed by Norbert Sattler, world-renowned glassmaker based in Nova Scotia, both of whose mastery and care ensured respectful realization of Teevee's artwork.
The window installation marks a meaningful milestone on BSS's ongoing journey toward truth and reconciliation that focuses on encouraging dialogue, understanding, and education about Indigenous histories and perspectives, and also includes learning resources for teachers and students.
The installation was celebrated with members of the school community and invited guests, including John Geoghegan, Curator of Canadian Art at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection who spoke about the vital role of Indigenous women in art; Archbishop Christopher A. Harper, the National Indigenous Anglican Archbishop of Canada and Cree member of the Treaty Six First Nations, who offered a prayer of dedication; Bishop Kevin Robertson, a suffragan bishop of The Diocese of Toronto, who offered a prayer of thanksgiving; and Leslie Boyd (BSS Class of 1975), whose lifelong work with Inuit artists helped orchestrate this collaborative effort.
The project was also inspired in memory of Grace Peebles (BSS Class of 2015), whose love of the Canadian North is reflected in this extraordinary work. BSS extends deep gratitude to its incredible community of donors and Grace's family, whose generosity reflects a shared commitment to fostering spaces that invite reflection and learning as part of a journey to truth and reconciliation.
Quotes
Dr. Angela Terpstra, BSS Head of School: "This window is more than a piece of art; it is a powerful symbol of collaboration and cultural learning for BSS and the wider community. We envisioned a lasting work that would honour Indigenous voices, deepen learning and reflect our school's values and commitment to reconciliation. That vision is now a powerful reality."
Ningiukulu "Ning" Teevee: "I felt that I needed to keep our stories alive our Inuit myths and legends that were told by our Elders, like Mialia Jaw. Those became the main source of my inspiration for the subjects of my art. But some of my drawings are also about everyday life up here in the North."
Sue Obata: "It was a true privilege to help bring Ning Teevee's vision to life in stained glass. By entrusting me and Sattler's Studio with the task of translating her drawing into a stained glass, she has gifted the students of this school a lasting legacy."
Norbert Sattler: "We are honoured to have collaborated with Ning Teevee and stained glass artist Sue Obata on this extraordinary project. Witnessing Ning's first stained glass window come to life was profoundly moving as her unique storytelling found new expression in light and colour."
To learn more about this project visit our website: https://www.bss.on.ca/news-detail?pk=1571921&fromId=196907#
