Sekuentol by Semiahmoo's Joan Williams symbolizes unity with interconnected hands, inspired by canoe journeys.

Roadside view of Sekuentol

Artists: Joan Williams
Location: King George Bridge (Nicomekl)
Category: Civic Collection
Year Installed: 2023

About Sekuentol

Sekuentol means ‘helping one another carry something by hand’ and speaks to the way that many hands can lighten a load. Joan's design incorporates a recurring motif of connected hands, drawing inspiration from the canoe journeys of her youth. These journeys, where numerous Nations were linked by the river, involved the passing of canoes hand over hand. Similarly, the bridge serves as a connection between the Kwantlen and Semiahmoo communities, with the hands serving as a poignant reminder that relationships are built on human connections.  The hands also represent a welcoming embrace when you enter Semiahmoo territory.

About the Artist

Joan Williams is a member of Semiahmoo First Nation. She has been interested in art since she was a child and studied at the Art Institute of Vancouver. Her body of work is focused on weaving, drawing, and digital art.