Featuring artwork by Dee Barsy
My signature style showcases gestural lines reminiscent of calligraphy and bright, vibrant colours within graphic-like shapes.
My contrasting colour palette is intensified by a teal blue background, symbolizing freedom of movement through air or water. Abstract depictions of birds are often featured in my
imaginative, dreamlike spaces. These intricate painterly relationships mirror my experience as a foster person adopted into a non-Indigenous family as I explore and reorganize emotions
and memories Some birds, like the ruby-throated hummingbird and bald eagle, are migratory.
In my work, I aim to capture the energy and rhythm of bird flight and song. The two hummingbirds, facing inward toward the abstract line drawings, appear connected by
a passage that suggests both closeness and distance—much like a transit hub. The abstract lines reference track design, navigating shifts in elevation and direction, while the birds also nod to the enduring
principles of historical locomotive construction. I hope viewers see in birds’ natural elegance a reflection of human creativity and innovation.
As an outside eye, emerging curator Brianna Wentz observes a deeper theme in my work.
The use of line thickness and scale blurs the distinction between foreground and background, giving equal importance to
all elements. This visual balance reflects the need to navigate colonial systems while reconnecting with and restoring Indigenous
ways of knowing and being.
Consequently, the visual entry points in these compositions are numerous; I hope my artwork ignites curiosity and inspiration in individuals of all ages.
About the artist
Dee Barsy (Anishinaabe-Ojibwe) is a mother, painter, and visual arts educator. She is a
former foster child and was adopted into a non-Indigenous family. She calls Winnipeg, Manitoba (Treaty 1) home.
In 2013, Dee graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Manitoba. In
2016, she completed an Educational Assistant Diploma at the University of Winnipeg. During the pandemic, she studied for one year as a
Master of Fine Arts student at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec.
Dee’s artwork is included in the Global Affairs Visual Art Collection, the Manitoba Museum collection, the Winnipeg Art Gallery on,
and many private collections. Additionally, Dee has had the privilege of working with local and national youth-serving art organizations.
Dee activates space through abstraction and vibrant, dynamic compositions. Her gestural lines exhibit rhythmic movements that
playfully interweave with one another. These imaginative compositions often feature depictions of birds.
About Union
Union is honoured to present this exhibition by artist Dee Barsy, whose work deeply aligns with our programming vision of celebrating
creativity, inclusion, and civic connection. We are proud to highlight the voices of Indigenous Peoples in our year-round programming,
especially in recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. With the support of organizations like the Gord Downie & Chanie
Wenjack Fund and TD, we are grateful to create space for meaningful dialogue and reflection through Dee’s powerful artistic lens.
As a proud Legacy Spaces partner with the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund, we are continuing to use our public space to take
reconciliACTION.
About TD
We recognize art from the Indigenous community is made of diverse forms and holds different meanings that can create conversations about the past, present, and future. TD has been highlighting artists from
Indigenous communities since 1967 through the TD Gallery of Indigenous Art and is committed to advancing Truth and Reconciliation by amplifying diverse voices that leverage the power of art as a means to learn
more about the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Learn more about how TD is working together with Indigenous Communities at td.com/indigenous
