Skull removed from Indigenous statue in Okotoks sparks calls for its return 

Part of an Indigenous art sculpture in the middle of an Okotoks neighbourhood has gone missing, leaving residents in shock. 

Sheila Hughes went to Westridge Park Saturday morning, where the sculpture was erected nearly decades ago. She says she immediately noticed something wasn’t right, and contacted police. 

“I looked at the statue and I thought something looks strange, there was rebar sticking out, so I looked at it a little closer and noticed the buffalo head was missing, so I was quite shocked,” Hughes said.

The sculpture was installed in 1992 by well-known local First Nations artist, Rocky Barstad.

A plaque displayed on the side of the statue reads “this piece of art represents a meeting place and is a way of giving thanks to the land on which it sits.” 

“This has a deep connection to the land, and is a big part of Truth and Reconciliation and happening way before that was even an important element in our community,” explained Allan Boss, culture heritage and events team leader with the Town of Okotoks.

Those who call the Westridge community home say they just want to see the missing skull returned. 

“I don’t think anybody would want to pursue charges or anything, it would just be nice to have it back,” said resident Allan Marcial.

Hughes agrees.

“No questions asked, if it shows up on one of the park benches, we’d be very happy, and we’d just like it returned so we can put it in its rightful home,” she said.

Hughes adds if the buffalo skull is not returned, she’ll be looking at other options like fundraising or commissioning a new artist to replace it.