King Charles’ new Canada House key is about subverting power, Ts’msyen designer says

Indigenous artist Morgan Asoyuf recently created a key to commemorate an important story from her home territory in Prince Rupert, B.C. The key was gifted to King Charles to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Canada House in London. Asoyuf, a Ts’msyen artist, carefully crafted the key to depict the story of Raven Steals the Light, a tale often attributed to Haida oral culture and shared by nations throughout B.C. and Alaska.

In the story, Raven, a trickster figure, disguises himself as a child to steal the light from a carefully guarded box. As he flies away with the box in his beak, he shares pieces of light with the people, creating the stars, moon, and sun. Asoyuf was inspired by the message of power and who it serves in the story of Raven Steals the Light. She wanted to explore how Indigenous people can subvert large political powers and reclaim their culture.

The key, designed by Asoyuf, is made of silver, bronze, and garnet gemstones, resembling Victorian-era skeleton keys. It was presented to King Charles at Canada House in London’s Trafalgar Square, where it will act as a ceremonial key to showcase Canadian culture to the world. Asoyuf reflected on the significance of Canada House elevating West Coast Indigenous artwork while acknowledging the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools.

As a multi-disciplinary artist, Asoyuf has used her art to address issues of cultural appropriation and sovereignty. In her series titled Royal Portrait, she designed ornate crowns and jewelry for Indigenous activists and matriarchs involved in land defense and advocating for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Asoyuf believes that Indigenous matriarchs are on the same level as any other monarch in the world, emphasizing the sovereignty of Indigenous nations.

The key to Canada House represents a powerful symbol of Indigenous resilience and creativity, encapsulating the story of Raven Steals the Light and the ongoing fight for Indigenous rights and recognition. Asoyuf’s artwork serves as a reminder of the strength and beauty of Indigenous cultures, reclaiming narratives that have been marginalized and misrepresented.