Manuel Axel Strain (b. 1990) is from the lands and waters of the xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Simpcw, and Syilx peoples. Strain’s mother is Tracey Strain and father is Eric Strain, Tracey’s parents are Harold Eustache (from Chuchua) and Marie Louis (from nk̓maplqs), Eric’s Parents are Helen Point (from xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm) and John Strain (Irish). Although they attended Emily Carr University of Art + Design, they prioritize Indigenous epistemologies through the embodied knowledge of their mother, father, siblings, cousins, aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews, grandparents and ancestors. They have contributed work to the Vancouver Art Gallery, Surrey Art Gallery, the UBCO FINA Gallery, were longlisted for the 2022 Sobey Award, and were a recipient of the 2022 portfolio prize.

For this year’s festival, Manuel has contributed two powerful backdrops for the Cedar Grove and River Grass stages in addition to his hosting duties.

Created by Manuel alongside fellow Musqueam artists Shane Pointe, Quintasket Strain, and Segwses Strain, this intergenerational collaboration carries stories across generations into the heart of the festival.

Manuel’s art is also being exhibited at the Richmond Art Gallery until November 9. You can find more information on his show here.