Sunrise Over the Credit
Sunrise Over the Credit is one of many public artworks on display across the City of Mississauga.
Jeannette Ladd
Digital illustration on vinyl
Marina Park fishing hut
About the artwork
“The Credit River flows through Mississauga, serving as a central artery of life and memory—its waters representing the lifeblood of the land. As the sun rises over the horizon, the scene reflects the deep interconnection between water, land, and spirit.
Swimming through the current are fish, or giigoonh, who carry the teachings of knowledge and responsibility. In Anishinaabe culture, fish are seen as knowledge keepers and protectors of the natural world. Their movements speak to the rhythms of migration and the sacred cycles of life.
The flowing, wavy lines symbolize the layers of water, the current’s energy, and the river’s constant motion. Beneath it all, the lakebed grounds the scene—connecting the water to the earth and anchoring the story in place.
Above the river stand sugar maple and poplar trees, common to the banks of the Credit. Their presence pays tribute to the natural beauty that still surrounds us, even in the heart of a growing city.”
–Jeannette Ladd
Gallery
Photography by Tori Lambermont
About the artist
As an Anishinaabe-kwe from Saugeen First Nation, located within the Saugeen Ojibway Territory along the shores of Lake Huron in Southern Ontario, Jeannette Ladd’s roots run deep in the land and culture that continue to shape her identity and artistic voice.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Toronto, where she learned to design spaces that reflect how people live and interact. While architecture gave her a strong foundation in design, art has always been at the heart of her journey. It is through painting and creative expression that Jeannette honours and celebrates her culture.
Art has played a vital role in her personal and professional growth. Each piece Jeannette creates is a reflection of her heritage – blending traditional teachings, natural elements, and vibrant storytelling with contemporary techniques. Jeannette’s work is grounded in the desire to share stories, build meaningful connections, and uplift Indigenous perspectives. Her artistic practice is a living expression of who she is, where she comes from, and the resilience of her people.