On September 13, Dianna and I visited the Bill Reid Gallery opening reception for a wonderful exhibit featuring 6 contemporary artists: Marvin Oliver, sculptor, Aaron Nelson-Moody, master jewellery maker,  lessLIE, Leslie Sam, graphic artist Sesemiya/Tracy Williams, weaver and traditional technologist, Ronnie Dean Harris/Ostwelve, videographer and spoken word artist/rapper/poet and Roxanne Charles, mixed media and performance artist. This is an exhibit, well worth revisiting and, in fact, is so multi-layered and complex, that more visits are a must.

At 639 Hornby, the museum is in a beautiful green setting, an inner courtyard surrounded by skyscrapers. It is a light filled jewel box, with a well organized collection watched over by a painting of Bill Reid, at work.

Co-curators Sharon Fortney and Beth Carter opened the evening. Ronnie Dean Harris added a rap/poem/song reaction and reflection about what 150 years means to him in terms of his own and his people's experiences throughout history and in today's world. It is a wake up call, a call for action, a celebration of strength and achievement and expression of culture.

This was a unique opportunity to meet and chat with the artists! Naturally, I was intrigued most by the clothing and accessories. Thinking about the skills, time and expertise it takes for Tracy Williams to make the Salish Forest Faerie and Mountain Goat Shoes and for Roxanne Charles to construct Blanket Dance, a piece that was quilted, embroidered and embellished by community members as well as the artist. Grandmother Barbara Calder told us about her part in the story. And isn't that what it is all about... sharing stories through Art and expressing Culture as a living record of achievement!

There is much more to be seen at the Bill Reid Gallery. Get on the mailing list to find out about the many events and exhibits there. Read more by Sabrina Furminger: New Bill Reid Gallery Exhibition Unfurls Future of Coast Salish Art. Westender.com Sept. 7-13.