Portage College may be small, but there is hidden talent in every corner that has a decorative background and an abundance of experience and connections that positively affect students. Ruby Sweetwan is the coordinator of the Indigenous Arts Program at Portage College.
Once a student and now a coordinator, Ruby had originally taken the program back in 1993. Soon after graduation, she became an educational assistant, grew into the role of instructor, and is now the coordinator of the Indigenous arts programs.
A professional artist with an extensive portfolio of commissioned works across Alberta, Sweetman has dedicated over 30 years to mentoring and inspiring students at Portage College. Her achievements have earned provincial recognition, including the creation of permanent display pieces for the Royal Alberta Museum in 2017.
Her work can be found throughout Alberta, including installations at Fort Edmonton Park, the Royal Alexandra Hospital’s Lois Hole Wing, and the TREX travelling exhibition. Her artistic practice spans a wide range of traditional Indigenous art forms, from handcrafted moccasins and fish-tail artwork to willow baskets and beadwork.
Throughout her longstanding involvement with the Alberta Craft Council, Ruby has built professional connections that have opened opportunities for not just herself but for students. Students are encouraged to sign up with the council, giving them the opportunity to connect with the art community and showcase their artistic portfolios.
Ruby, along with the rest of the artistic team at the college, strives to create opportunities for students. Ruby implements this through field trips to the Alberta Craft Council, Bearclaw Gallery, and the Art Gallery of Alberta. Allowing students to engage directly with professional artists, galleries, and cultural institutions.
“These connections are great for students to network their name as an artist but also make relationships within the professional field,” Sweetman commented.
Ruby not only carries culture and tradition through her artistic career but also brings it into the classroom. Students learn the traditional skills of how to create Indigenous art, from the thirteen steps of hide tanning to traditional basket weaving, beading, and tufting techniques. Ruby and the arts teams’ mentorship and wealth of talent create an environment where student success is supported both inside and outside the classroom.
Alongside many other talented artists, Ruby’s work is featured throughout the Portage College Museum of Aboriginal Peoples’ Art and Artifacts. Below are photographs showcasing some of her pieces currently on display.
Among the featured works are traditional mukluks inspired by Ruby’s mentor, Elsie Quintal. Quintal’s guidance and influence have played a significant role in shaping Ruby’s artistic journey, grounding her work in Indigenous traditions while encouraging her to share and preserve this knowledge with future generations. Through her art, Ruby continues to celebrate cultural heritage and educate others about Indigenous artistic practices and traditions.
