CAG/CARTO 2026 - Resilience Logo

Logo Purpose & Inspiration

The logo, by artist Dahlila Charlie, represents the spirit and theme of the upcoming conference: Resilience. Its design draws inspiration from local land, water, and Coast Salish visual language to honour place-based identity and community strength.

"I focused on themes of trees, land, water, interconnectedness, and salmon in a circular design symbolizing unity and the circle of life. This design reflects growth and generational strength, while the river's movement represents life's renewal amidst climate change, social inequity, and political disinformation. Like trees thriving together, we cultivate integrity and a growth mindset. The salmon symbolizes continuous cycles and the importance of respecting all life and land stewardship, connecting communities and sustaining ecosystems for a better future."

Symbolism & Breakdown
Circle:

Unity (NAH’TSA’MAHT), wholeness, and balance

Trees:

Community, rootedness, growth, and collective strength

Salmon:

Playfulness, strength, protection, respect, nurturing, and guidance

River:

Life, renewal, and the capacity to move through challenges, and continuity

About the Artist

Dahlila Charlie is a Coast Salish visual artist from the SĆIȺNEW̱ Nation, currently residing in Victoria, BC. Through her breathtaking acrylic paintings and murals, Dahlila utilizes Coast Salish art style and realism to narrate the stories of her Nation. She has trained under the guidance of more experienced Indigenous artists and has crafted her own unique style to embody cultural teachings and assert her presence in contemporary art. In her artistic practice, Dahlila encourages audiences to appreciate the beauty of the Coast Salish peoples and their deep connection to the land and ocean. As her career flourishes, she eagerly shares her skills and knowledge within community and in local school district #62 as an artist in residence while dedicating herself to creating artwork.

Closing Remarks

In closing, this logo brings together land, water, and community in a unified visual identity that honours both tradition and forward movement. Its forms and colours were intentionally created to reflect the resilience of Coast Salish design and the teachings carried through generations, and the deep connection to the land. By blending cultural grounding with modern clarity, the design supports a welcoming, meaningful, and enduring presence across all conference materials. It aims to stand confidently on presentations, signage, and digital platforms representing the strength and continuity of the community with respect and intention.