After the birth of my child, I suffered immensely from postpartum depression it took many years to recover from the trauma I experienced during this stage of my life.  During my healing process, I explored both Western and non-Western ways to heal myself. I was determined to find balance in my life. This painting represents my own personal healing journey by connecting with the power of the moon through Indigenous women’s cultural ceremonies and teachings. The bear is considered a healer. The hibernating bears represent the inward and meditative nature of the moon’s type of inward feminine healing energy.  Our moon, known as a Grandmother, can be observed and accessed for much personal growth and healing. I am stronger today and ever grateful for my personal struggles as they have brought me back to my culture and have helped heal so much of my feminine identity.                                                         

-Leah Marie Dorion

Leah Marie Dorion is a Métis writer and artist currently living near Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada. Her artwork celebrates the strength and resilience of Indigenous women and families.  Leah is also a published children's book author and illustrator. Several of her Métis cultural books are available through Gabriel Dumont Press in Saskatoon. Her art and writing explore Métis cultural issues of identity, history, worldview, and cultural healing resilience.