Kukstsémc (pronounced cooks-jam) means thank you in Secwepemctsin, the native language of the Splatsin People.
The praise was offered numerous times to Splatsin artist Hop You as his sculpture was unveiled in Enderby July 18.
But for You, the thanks (kukstsémc) are dedicated to Mother Earth.
She is the inspiration behind the piece, which is the first in the City of Enderby's Public Art Sculpture Program.
"I think Mother Earth gave us so much, what do we give back, nothing hardly," You said.
His sculpture offers ways for people to thank her in return, with efforts to protect the environment by working together and learning from Elders.
Elder Adele Thomas praised You for not just his art, but for all he does to help others.
"He's done so much for our community," Thomas said, before presenting a vest she made for him. "The other day he brought me a gallon of huckleberries, and I didn’t expect it."
Splatsin Kukpi7 (chief) Michael Christian used to work with Hop in forestry and can attest to his giving spirit.
"He’s done a lot for the community there’s a lot of his works in and around the community as well," Christian said. "He’s done picnic tables, sculptures like this. The time and effort that goes into this is quite a lot. His heart is in the work as well."
Along with acknowledging You and Mother Earth, the work speaks to efforts being made by the City of Enderby and Splatsin.
"We are making steps forward together in a beautiful way," said Enderby Mayor Chuck Galbraith.
You, 77, was born in Vernon but moved up north to work and to Oregan in his 20s. He returned home40 years ago to Splatsin, a place he continually draws inspiration from in his art.
"Wherever you look is beautiful," You said.
