The talents of Kwantlen First Nation artists will be in the spotlight when the Langley Centennial Museum presents its newest exhibit, Here and Now: Contemporary Kwantlen First Nations Art.
Featuring the work of Brandon Gabriel and Phyllis Atkins, the exhibit will highlight the connection between Kwantlen First Nation’s past and present.
Works in the exhibit will explore the diverse methods and inspirations of both artists, and many pieces have particular significance for the entire Kwantlen First Nation.
One of the most substantial pieces will be a 25-foot canoe. Over the years, the canoe has travelled down many waterways. It has recently undergone refurbishments, including a new frame, seating, and gunnel made entirely from Stanley Park cedar that fell during the great winter storm of 2006. The canoe, painted by Gabriel, will be given a proper name at the exhibit’s opening reception.
Atkins’ oil paintings also depict the community of the Kwantlen people.
Many of her paintings express the Kwantlen’s journey of life and the sacredness of precious resources. Her Salmon painting represents the importance of the salmon industry to Kwantlen people.
Here and Now: Contemporary Kwantlen First Nations Art, opens on Tuesday, May 15, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The evening’s celebrations will include a full salmon dinner, a blanketing ceremony, and a traditional canoe blessing, which will be the first of its kind for the Kwantlen First Nation in 100 years.