NANAIMO, BC – TimberWest has announced its First Nation Cultural Art Showcase Program, which recognizes and supports three First Nation artists representing their major language group on Vancouver Island. The program commissions the artists to design, create and showcase their cultural art work at a seven-week art show in September hosted at the Nanaimo Art Gallery at Vancouver Island University (VIU).
The artists are: Curtis Wilson from Campbell River in the Kwakwaka’wakw territory, Richard Thomas of the Coast Salish Stayout Tribe, and Vince Smith of the Ehattesaht tribe in the Nuu-chah-nulth territory.
“We are pleased to shine a spotlight on these remarkable artists, and provide the public with a viewing experience that will tell a story about Vancouver Island’s First Nation culture.” says Jeff Zweig, president and CEO of TimberWest.
“I am honoured that I was selected to represent the Kwakwaka’wakw territory, and I am excited to showcase my catalogue of work at my alma mater,” says Curtis Wilson, artist. “My motto is the belief that every day is a learning experience and we must do our best to pass on our cultural knowledge to future generations. This opportunity is one avenue to accomplish that goal.”
“Knowing that my catalogue of work will be shown at VIU, and thousands of students will interact with my heritage and culture, makes me proud,” says Richard Thomas, artist. “There is no better way to start a dialogue or to understand another point of view than through art.”
Artist profiles and artwork will be shared over the summer on TimberWest’s blog and social media channels. The art showcase will take place in September, 2017.
Photo courtesy of Curtis Wilson.