"The Whistle Carrier" mural, again by Nathan P Meguinis, also hangs behind the teller desk. The original work lives in the branch, too, in one of the hallways.
Customers entering the branch are greeted by this mural of the buffalo by Tsuut'ina artist Nathan P Meguinis, which includes welcome messages in Tsuut'ina and English languages.
The buffalo holds great significance for many Indigenous Peoples, as it is viewed as a sacred life source. Historically, First Nation people used every part of the buffalo—bones for tools, hides for clothing and warmth, meat for food. "Nothing ever went to waste," Albrecht says, explaining that this mindset is important for how everyone should approach our environment today.
This display cabinet located in the main visitor area contains items from Albrecht's personal collection of art from Indigenous Peoples and communities.
It includes porcupine quills, beadwork, necklaces, and a mask that was made for Albrecht's mother.
While the art in the display case comes from groups led by Indigenous Peoples across Canada, the teepee is a special gift.
"This teepee was given to my mother from Tsuut'ina—it is a Tsuut'ina teepee and so it has their colours on it," Albrecht says.
Another item in the showcase cabinet is this beadwork on hide. Albrecht says the idea is to rotate the items on display so that different artifacts from different periods of time can be seen by customers.
"We want to make sure that we're highlighting community," she says.
In this office is the original piece of art by Nathan P Meguinis that hangs in the front foyer. "Nathan's artwork is absolutely beautiful," Albrecht says.
This piece, entitled "Traditional Woman" – also by Nathan P Meguinis – hangs prominently behind the teller stations so customers can easily see it as they do their banking. The original piece is displayed in one of the branch office spaces.
