Cyril Polchies
Born in 1962 in Rexton, New Brunswick, Cyril Polchies has spent a lifetime immersed in the world of art and culture. Surrounded by artists from an early age, he grew up watching his grandparents craft traditional baskets—an experience that sparked a deep appreciation for Indigenous artistry and craftsmanship.
As a young man, Cyril traveled to Montana to learn the art of stone carving, further expanding his creative practice. He returned home to Elsipogtog, where he continues to hone his skills and share his passion for traditional Mi’kmaq art forms.
For the past 35 years, Cyril has been deeply committed to preserving and practicing his culture and traditions, integrating them into his artwork and daily life. His work is a reflection of his roots, his teachings, and his dedication to keeping Mi’kmaq heritage alive for future generations.
Awakening of the Masks Medicine
FRIDAY 10:30am - 12:00pm
Mi’gmaq artist Gordon Sparks, alongside Elders Donna Augustine (Thunderbird Turtle Woman) and Cyril Polchies (Wape'k Paqtism), will guide participants through the powerful story behind the creation of two traditional storytelling masks for the community of Elsipogtog. Born from a vision of healing and reconnection, the project began with the ceremonial harvesting of a tree from Virginia Park—a place marked by past loss, but chosen not to revisit pain, rather to rise from it.
With the guidance of Elders, the energy of student drum groups, and the hands of young learners, this initiative became a movement—rooted in humility, lifted by community, and shaped by traditional knowledge. The process honored the land, the medicines, and the stories that continue to teach us. These masks are more than carvings; they are teachers in themselves—carrying lessons of humility, the importance of traditional medicines, and the strength found in cultural identity.
Though the project addresses difficult truths, it does so in a good way—the right way—through ceremony, collaboration, and storytelling. What began in the school has since ignited a community-wide resurgence, inspiring new mask carvers and renewing commitments to ancestral ways of knowing. This keynote shares the journey of reclaiming teachings, honouring the past, and carving a future grounded in spirit, strength, and story