Community Invited to Unveiling of Restored NILTU,O Public Mural
Residents are invited to attend the unveiling and rededication of NILTU,O, a restored public mural recognizing the long history and cultural presence of the W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples on the Saanich Peninsula.
The community unveiling will take place on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Resthaven Drive and Beacon Avenue in Sidney.
Originally unveiled in 1996, NILTU,O was created with input and guidance from the Tseycum Nation and representatives of additional W̱SÁNEĆ Nations. Over the past three months, the mural has undergone museum-level restoration by its original artist, IceBear of the Chippewas of Nawash, ensuring the artwork can be appreciated by future generations.
The restoration project received funding through the Saanich Peninsula Arts and Culture Grant (SPACG) Program, administered by ArtSea Community Arts Council. The program is funded by the Town of Sidney and the District of North Saanich and supports projects that strengthen community connections while celebrating the region’s arts, culture, and heritage.
The District of North Saanich is pleased to support initiatives like the SPACG Program that help preserve and celebrate the shared cultural and artistic heritage of the Saanich Peninsula.
For more information about the SPACG Program and ArtSea Community Arts Council, visit artsea.ca. For more information about the artist, IceBear, visit icebearstudios.com.
