NORTH BATTLEFORD — Red Pheasant Cree Nation artist Lionel Peyachew is to be recognized with the 2026 Saskatchewan Order of Merit.
He is one of nine people recently named to receive the prestigious award, the province’s highest honour.
Lionel Auburn Peyachew’s creative practice has shaped Saskatchewan’s cultural landscape for nearly three decades. Best known for his public sculptural works, he is an accomplished painter, artist, educator, mentor and volunteer. His installations are found across Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Over the last decade, Peyachew’s work has focused on themes of reconciliation, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Residential Schools and the ongoing impacts of colonialism. His art creates space for dialogue, remembrance and healing while fostering shared understanding. A significant example is Annie Peyachew (2024), unveiled in North Battleford and inspired by a relative who attended the Battlefords Industrial School. The sculpture responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and has become a cherished community monument.
Since 2005, Peyachew has served as associate professor of Indigenous Fine Arts at the First Nations University of Canada, where he has also held leadership roles. Through teaching, mentorship, exhibitions and community-based projects, he has inspired emerging Indigenous artists.
Peyachew’s extensive service to the arts includes his past role as director of the Saskatchewan Arts Board and ongoing involvement with Sâkêwêwak Artists’ Collective Inc. His career reflects artistic excellence, cultural preservation and community leadership.
North Battleford Mayor Kelli Hawtin recently commended Peyachew on his achievements in a Facebook post.
"Mr. Peyachew has worked with the city on a number of occasions, having taught drum making at the Allen Sapp Gallery – the Gonor Collection to local high school students, and was the artist who created the beautiful bronze sculpture of 'Annie Peyachew,' a monument dedicated to students of residential schools, located in Central Park in North Battleford," she said.
Hawtin said the City of North Battleford continues to work with Peyachew on various initiatives.
"We offer our sincere thanks for his continued contributions to arts and culture in our community and our region," Hawtin said.
