This year’s medals were designed by Inuit artist Bronson Jacque, from Postville, Nunatsiavut. Bronson has been making art for nearly fifteen years now, and is under 30 years old. To broaden his artistic skills, Bronson studies Fine Art at NSCAD University in Halifax, NS. Traditionally, he paints in oil, known for its ephemeral qualities and loose, hazy naturalism. It is his artistic family that has influenced his perspective over the years on Labrador’s art scene and in his work. This year, Bronson was selected to design medals for Ulnooweg’s Annual Summer Solstice Run in three categories: 2k, 5k, and 10k.

As an Inuk, in his own language journey in learning Inuktitut, and living and working in the unceeded territory of the Mi’kmaq, Bronson sees the importance of language revitalization and is incorporating elements into his designs that honour both cultures. The talking stick is a powerful tool that people use to solve problems and express themselves freely. Those who hold a Talking Stick possess the power of words. By holding a Talking Stick, the holder can gain the courage to speak truthfully and wisely. In the designs, ancestors and family references are meant to evoke a sense of pride in one’s cultural heritage and language, as well as inspire people to continue to learn and teach.