La Maison De Mes Aïeux

La Maison De Mes Aïeux (The House of My Ancestors) is about reestablishing lost connections with my past. I’m a fourth generation immigrant to the USA from Quebec and I’ve lived much of my life with no thoughts about my history or past. Even though my Canadian heritage, particularly the French language, has been passed down from generation to generation all the way to my parents, I somehow missed its significance. This all changed when I took a DNA test and discovered the genetic component of my roots.

I began researching my family which led me to discover my great grandfather’s grave right here in Rhode Island. From there I traced my family line all the way back to Quebec, even traveling to Isle d’Orleans in the middle of the St. Lawrence River where many French immigrants initially landed when they arrived in Canada. Getting in touch with my heritage in such a personal way got me thinking about how many of us have lost connections to our pasts in this melting pot we call America. Imagining and perhaps also remembering the dramas of my history — what we brought, what we lost, and what we discovered —- completed me in a sense and gave more meaning to my life. My print commemorates this deeply intimate journey and perhaps will encourage others to explore their pasts as well.

CAROL A. SHELTON