Majestic and powerful, Makwa embodies the strength and resilience of the grizzly bear, a species deeply revered in many Anishinaabe traditions. More than just an apex predator, the grizzly symbolises courage, wisdom, and the sacred connection between nature and humankind.

Listed as a Threatened Species under the Endangered Species Act since 1975, grizzly bears face ongoing survival challenges. Human-caused mortalities and habitat destruction continue to threaten their existence in the lower 48 states, pushing them further from the wild landscapes they once freely roamed.

Through this sculpture, Makwa stands as both a tribute and a call to awareness, honouring the cultural significance of the grizzly bear while reminding us of our responsibility to protect these extraordinary beings before they vanish from our world.