The late Anishinaabe artist Michael “Cy” Cywink created hundreds of murals across Ontario during his lifetime, earning recognition for his bold use of colour, symbolism, and dedication to mentoring young people.
A new documentary, The Creation Story of Michael ‘Cy’ Cywink, will honour his life and legacy with a premiere on National Indigenous Peoples Day at the Blyth Festival Art Gallery in Huron County, Ont. The event also includes an exhibition of 50 of his artworks.
Cywink died last month at age 71, just weeks before the film’s release.
Filmmaker Cory Bilyea of Six Nations of the Grand River began working with Cywink on the project seven years ago. She said he encouraged her to follow her dream of becoming a filmmaker and supported her throughout the process.
Bilyea said Cywink was deeply committed to helping youth, teaching them to express emotions through art and guiding them with the Seven Grandfather Teachings. She first met him in the 1980s, when he was a youth mentor in Toronto, and said his support helped her through difficult times.
Cywink, from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, lived much of his life in Espanola, Ont. He painted more than 300 murals, including dozens in schools across the province, often through Indigenous arts programs. He also wrote a children’s book called The Adventures of Crazy Turtle.
Bilyea said the film reflects Cywink’s goal of breaking down barriers and preserving Indigenous oral traditions. It will screen on June 21 and 28, with the art exhibition running until July 11.
