New artworks by Indigenous artists installed in Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Indigenous artists Zoey Holsclaw and Nakoa Mercier unveiled new installations at Tom McCall Waterfront Park near the Hawthorne Bridge. The pieces, part of "Traveling with Our Ancestors," were commissioned by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and will be on display until spring 2026. Holsclaw expressed her connection to her ancestors through canoeing, stating, "Being in the canoe is where I feel most connected to my ancestors, my people, and the water. " The Office of Arts & Culture emphasized the importance of tribal history in Portland, encouraging the public to engage with the art. This project aligns with local efforts to highlight Indigenous cultural heritage through public art.

The Cultural Resources Department of Grand Ronde describes this initiative as "place-keeping," responding to a call for the Portland Monuments and Memorial Project. Historic canoes featured in the artwork are still used today, especially during events like the Inter-Tribal Canoe Journey. The installation serves to educate and foster community memory among Portland's Native and Indigenous populations.