Meishon bell-Racette
An Inside Look.
Growing up in Haida Gwaii, my family were my biggest mentors and inspiration. I look up to my Naanii, who painted oil scenes and captured her life on film. I appreciate the way she consistently created images that pulled you into that moment in time. As a child, my Aunty Rhea let me use her camera, which first sparked my interest in photography. We would hike together and my first photos were of natural landscapes. This subject has remained important to me in my current work. And for my sixteenth birthday, she gave me my first camera."
The men in my life provided a different kind of inspiration. My Dad taught me the importance of providing. We spent many weekends on the pristine waters of Masset Inlet and the Dixon Entrance, on backroads, and driving through cutblocks with deactivated roads. Witnessing the devastating aftermath of clear-cut logging. These experiences shaped my perspective on conservation and the importance of Yahguudang(Respect).
My Tsinnii is my connection to my culture. Ever since I can remember, he would tell stories of his upbringing, how he’d fish with his Uncle Wesley, learning the traditional way, from uncle to nephew. With those skills, he provides for his family. I admire how he takes his work seriously, with pride and attention to detail. He taught me the value of hard work, and how you can achieve big things if you're willing to put in the time.
“creation is needed to exist”