Beltline Urban Mural Project (BUMP)
“coming together”
"Coming Together" invites viewers to initiate conversations of acceptance, resilience and shared experiences. This mural was created in collaboration with Coloring It Forward to promote indigenous culture through Southern Alberta. "Coming Together" marked a new era for Kalum, being his first mural painted by brush, and premium acrylic paint, Kalum faced challenges of magnitudes he’s never seen before.
Featuring Kalum’s signature piece “Sunset Song” on the foreground, “the colors of the sunset reflect the spirit of [his] ancestors, reminding us of the beauty in every ending and new beginning”. In the background you can find the water, he emphasizes "Through my art, I want to convey that we are all part of a greater ecosystem. Just as water connects us, so too do our stories and experiences."
Source: @YYCBUMP
“This [30x36 foot] mural isn’t just my work; it represents the voices of the community. I believe that when we come together, we can create something truly beautiful and impactful.”
cOVERING OF “cOMING TOGETHER”
Kalum Teke Dan's mural "Coming Together," created for the BUMP festival, was unfortunately covered shortly after its completion. This mural symbolized community strength and unity. Kalum expressed his disappointment, stating, "Art is a powerful tool for healing, and I hoped this mural would inspire conversations about reconciliation." The covering ignited discussions about the visibility of Indigenous art and the need for acknowledgment. As Kalum noted, "Even though the mural is covered, the message of coming together lives on in the hearts of those who engaged with it." This experience highlights the ongoing challenges Indigenous artists face in sharing their stories.