The title, A Seat at the Table, is drawn from Solange Knowles’ 2016 album, emphasizing that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to listen, share, and influence without fear of retribution. As I conceptualized the artwork that would later be hand-painted on the table, I wanted the imagery to carry a deeper significance — inspiring and resonating with those interacting with it.

The hands reach for butterflies, affirmations and prayers, and the eagle feather symbolizes openness to learning, listening, and reflecting on the ongoing journey of Truth and Reconciliation. This part of the work was influenced by the time I spent with Elder Treffrey and Elder Cindy during our monthly meetings, where I learned the importance of honouring and listening to the Indigenous peoples of this land. I wanted this project to reflect my respect for their wisdom and culture.

The butterflies in the artwork represent personal growth, hope, and courage, while the flowers symbolize love and perseverance. I also incorporated positive affirmations from community members and prayers gathered during my community engagement efforts. These elements were added to uplift those who sit at the table, offering encouragement and support through words of hope.

Ultimately, this table is more than just a functional object; it is a time capsule that encapsulates the collaboration of the Northeast Calgary community, the wisdom shared by the Elders, and the energy and reflection invested in this project. Through A Seat at the Table, I hope to create a space where dialogue is encouraged, growth and healing are possible, and everyone can contribute and be heard.

Akwai first discovered her passion for arts at the age of six. Growing up in Sudan, she did not have access to art materials or programs, but her passion led her to become a self-taught artist when she moved to Canada at the age of nine. After graduating high school, she moved to Oakville, Ontario, to pursue visual arts at Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. Today, she uses her education in visual arts and experience working in the non-profit sector to uplift her community. Akwai instructs art to youth and adults at various non-profit organizations with the aim of bridging the gap between artistic expression and community engagement. Akwai’s commitment to addressing social change through her artistic practice is displayed through this project by bringing public art to underserved communities.

“This is my first time working in public art, especially working in collaboration with the city of Calgary,” says the emerging artist at the heart of the area’s new art table. “I’ve learned so much working with public art managers, fabricators, conservators and my fellow artists.”

Akwai’s art explores the complexities of human emotion through portraits, landscapes, and human figures rendered in oils and acrylics on canvas. Her work is intentionally composed, layered with symbolism to capture both the darkness and beauty of emotional experiences. Each piece is an invitation to engage with the chaotic, often contradictory nature of being human, reflecting moments of vulnerability, strength, and transformation.

Akwai’s A Seat At The Table embodies a multifaceted vision—celebrating inclusivity, diversity, and the power of community. Inspired by Solange’s album of the same name, the work transforms a simple picnic table into a welcoming space for all. With its vibrant colours and symbolism, the table becomes a metaphor for unity, offering a place where everyone, regardless of background, is invited to partake in a shared, empowering experience.

At the heart of Akwai’s artistic practice is a commitment to inspiring young Black and Brown youth to pursue their passions, particularly in the arts. She hopes her work will demonstrate to the youth of South Sudan and beyond that they, too, can carve out spaces for themselves in the artistic world—thriving in places like Calgary, where creative expression is celebrated. Through A Seat At The Table, Akwai has created a functional piece of art and a time capsule. She engaged with her local community, collecting affirmations from the people of Northeast Calgary to embed messages of hope and encouragement within the work. Visitors to the table will be invited to read uplifting words like “I have a bright and fulfilling future ahead of me” and “I will never give up,” fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

“In my art, I strive to reflect the beauty and resilience of the community and to offer a space where every person feels seen and valued,” reflects Akwai. “Art, for me, is a tool for empowerment—a way to connect, uplift, and inspire.”

Strong influences from Elder Cindy Daniels of the Stoney Nakoda community and Elder Treffrey Deerfoot of the Blackfoot community inspired her piece's representation of Indigenous culture.

“A large portion of the project involved honouring the First Nations and Indigenous community,” says Akwai, who adds she wanted to represent all Calgarians in her piece. The table’s images include an eagle feather, prayers written by the Elders, sage, and tobacco as the table’s centrepiece.

Akwai’s piece is part of the Northeast Public Art Initiative, a project designed to bring more art to communities in Northeast Calgary. The project funds numerous functional art pieces that serve the community by providing seating or safe bike parking. Alongside Akwai’s picnic table, more functional art pieces have been installed or are in development, including a bench by Day Pajarillo in October 2024 and a bike rack by Vikram Johal to be completed in the spring/summer of 2025.

“The Northeast Public Art Initiative aims to address a historic discrepancy we’ve seen in the city with many more visible artworks in areas of Calgary such as the downtown, and less in the Northeast,” reflects project manager Toyin Oladele. “I’m proud of the art we are bringing to the Northeast and the positive impact this will have on Calgarians in the Northeast. The more art we can install that truly reflects the character of a community; the more people feel a sense of belonging.”