Visual artist Tory Manywounds (he/him) was born in 1973 to a TsuuT’ina mother and Jamaican father. He is a Status Indigenous person, and also a black man.

I grew up with the impact of residential school influencing my mothers choices and ultimately that of me and my sister.

My art has always been a vessel to carry my imagination to a place of peace and calm. The use of resin, concrete and steel balanced with jewelry making allows me to express all my emotions in the best mediums. I am drawn to the abstract and images that portray the range of emotions I feel when I create. Music is always present and fuels my creativity in ways I cant even explain. My hands are simply a tool for my soul to create.

ARTIST STATEMENT

As a BIPOC artist, my work is deeply rooted in my experiences, cultural heritage, and the communities that have shaped me. Through my art, I seek to challenge the systemic injustices and inequalities that exist within our society. My artistic practice is multidisciplinary, ranging from resin, concrete to jewelry and live art. I am drawn to vibrant abstract patterns and images that reflect the richness and diversity of my cultural heritage. At the heart of my work is a commitment to creating spaces where BIPOC voices and perspectives can be heard and celebrated. I believe that art has the power to connect us to our past, present, and future, and to inspire social change and healing. Through my art, I hope to contribute to a world that is more inclusive, equitable, and just, where every individual is valued and celebrated for who they are.

I wanted to bring a collection of my work that depicts the life of a bipoc person. My story will hopefully resonate with others that share a biracial background and see themselves in my artwork. Inspired by the current events and the rise of other creators I feel it’s important to continue to bring light to groups like and other marginalized people.

The opportunity to showcase my work in the city I was born and raised is exciting on so many levels… cSPACE has created a platform to showcase local talent and beyond and I am very thankful to be part of the discussion moving forward.

…I hope to reach new eyes and ears. I hope to enlighten those who wish to learn and share my passion with those who wish to see it. I want to be thought of as a person with passion for what I do and hope it shows.

Get people talking about not being alone in how we feel about ourselves. I know there are others like myself that share mixed emotions about being two or more races. The reality of never really fitting “in” with either side and the challenges in society we face. Sharing my art with people. Letting them see what my passion is and what is possible with my chosen mediums. Collaboration would be great. To find like minded artists who wish to share a vision and create something special.

I am composed of the two most talked about cultural backgrounds right now being indigenous and black. The foundations of community must include inclusivity on all levels and welcome all. cSPACE is doing these things and including those who matter.

I would love to see more venues that showcase art outside the traditional gallery concept. We must continue to strive for more cultural based event centers that cater to a diverse group of people. We have much to offer and the city if full of amazing artists who have something to offer the world.

I am simply happy to be on the “wake up list.”

The opportunity to be better than I was yesterday is enough for me to wake with gratitude and purpose. As I age, the thought of my own mortality is ever present. The reminder life is short is there but serves as a reminder to do things that matter and to not spend time on frivolous things that don’t matter. Have you ever seen an U-Haul at a funeral? Exactly my point.