On October 3rd, a stunning, hand-carved sculpture was set up in the Commons. The untitled piece, by Nunavut-based artist Lukie Airut, is constructed from salvaged whalebone vertebrae with baleen, stone, narwhal tusks and seal skin. The piece is owned by the Bensen Family, and it has been on display at Earls Court Gallery in Hamilton. The Bensen Family wished that the sculpture be displayed in Hamilton and Earls Court approached Redeemer about setting it up here on permanent loan. After discussions with Redeemer’s Art Acquisition Committee and the Bensen Family, it was decided that the Commons would give the piece the visibility it richly deserves. A formal opening was held on Thursday, November 13. The Bensen family was warmly welcomed, and spoke briefly about the piece. Art professor Chris Cuthill also spoke about the importance of the piece to Redeemer: 鈥淭his carving will remind and teach our students about aboriginal peoples, and about the histories and present realities of their communities, which have not been covered nearly enough in art disciplines,鈥 shared Prof. Cuthill in his remarks. 鈥淲e are thrilled to see the sculpture have such a beautiful home, and thrilled that it will be seen by and be used in teaching Redeemer students about Canada鈥檚 aboriginal peoples and their histories,鈥 said Wynn Bensen.