Pacific Coast Salish Art

By Jim Gerwing

Just at the time when people are talking about the Salish Sea as a new name for the Strait of Juan de Fuca and waters between Vancouver Island and the mainland , the British Columbia Royal Museum has mounted a significant show of Coast Salish Art.

In a cooperative venture with the Seattle Art Museum and Coast Salish peoples, our local museum is presenting S'ABADEB, THE GIFTS, specifically the sustained act of giving one's time, resources, and expertise during the course of everyday activities. The Cowichan sweater is a good example: a work of art that keeps you warm.

Coast Salish First Nations have inhabited northern Vancouver Island, the lower mainland, and western Washington since at least 9000BC. Despite losing their lands, seeing family ties broken by the residential schools and the establishment of the international border between Canada and the United States, the First Nations proudly announce, "We're still here."

While it is important for these people to reclaim and celebrate their own heritage, it is equally important for other Canadians to witness and to learn the wisdom they have to offer. A culture of celebrating life as gifts from the earth, from family, from ancestors, from the spirit world, provides the world with a vision of cooperation and respect instead of competition and mistrust.

Comprising 165 ancient and contemporary works of art, the exhibition runs from November 20 till March 8, 2010. After the high admission prices during the blockbuster Treasures exhibit, patrons will welcome tickets at $15 for adults, and $9.50 for seniors, youth, and students. For more information visit .

Don't miss this one. It is amazingly beautiful.