In the Presence of Ancestors: Musqueam

Thu May 6: Artist Talk with Musqueam Carver Chrystal Sparrow

Thu May 20: Evening Gathering with Musqueam Elder Doris Fox

Thu Jun 3: Legacy of Musqueam Land Defence

Thu Jun 10: Artist Talk with Debra Sparrow (θəliχʷəlʷət)

Sun Jun 13: Weaving Workshop with Debra Sparrow

Mon Jun 21: National Indigenous Peoples Day - Honouring Musqueam

These lands and waters, currently known as Port Moody, have been cared for by a long legacy of ancestors since time immemorial. These ancestors include the people of Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, Səlilwətaɬ, kʷikʷəƛ̓əm, and the S’ólh Téméxw. While each of these Nations are unique with their own songs, histories, and languages, they all share in a sacred responsibility to care for the future of these lands and waters. In partnership with the Port Moody Ecological Society, Coast Salish artist Tasha Faye Evans is curating a commission of house posts to be carved by artists from five of these Nations. This collection of house posts will be raised along Port Moody’s iconic Shoreline trail and be called, “In the Presence of Ancestors”. Each house post will raised to watch over these lands and waters and be life-long reminders to current residents of our shared and sacred responsibility to join the legacy of ancestors caring for the future of all of our relations.

As each house post is carved, the artist will be in residence at the Noons Creek hatchery and will be supported by a program of Knowledge Keepers and artists to highlight each Nation and their history in these lands.

This Spring, we are focusing on Musqueam. Beginning in April, carver Chrystal Sparrow will be artist in residence. Her house post and creative process will be supported by a program of vibrant artists and Knowledge Keepers sharing Musqueam history, culture and visions for the future.

In the fall, we look forward to hosting Xwalacktun OBC from Squamish Nation. There will be a program of Squamish artists and Knowledge Keepers throughout the fall and next spring.

In 2019, Brandon Gabriel carved the “Spirit of Kwikwetlem” in collaboration with Kwiwkwetlem Elders and youth. Currently, Tsleil Waututh artist Zachary George is carving “Grandmother’s Prayer”.

All house posts will be raised in ceremony by June 21, 2023.