New Bill Reid Gallery exhibition celebrates namesake’s influence on Northwest Coast art, opening April 26
Bright Futures features works by emerging and established Indigenous artists alongside pieces by the iconic Haida goldsmith, carver, and sculptor
Maynard Johnny Jr. Protector, 2023. Silkscreen print 35 x 35 inches. Photo courtesy of the artist/Bill Reid Gallery
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents Bright Futures from April 26 to January 14, 2024; opening celebration takes place on April 25 at 6 pm
TWENTY-FIVE YEARS after Bill Reid’s death, the legacy of the renowned Haida master goldsmith, carver, sculptor, writer, broadcaster, and spokesperson lives on. A new group exhibition at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art looks at the lasting influence of the iconic artist on the creation and development contemporary Northwest Coast art since his death in 1988.
Having its Canadian premiere in Vancouver, Bright Futures features works by 14 emerging and established Northwest Coast artists, which will be exhibited alongside significant pieces by the legend himself.
Co-curated by Bill Reid Gallery curator Beth Carter and assistant curator Aliya Boubard in consultation with Jordan Wilson (Musqueam), the exhibition grew out of an open call for submissions based on the question: “How does Bill Reid’s work continue to influence contemporary Northwest Coast art being produced today?” The selected artists interweave excellence and traditional knowledge with contemporary topics such as reconciliation, urban issues, modern creativity, environmental concerns, and intergenerational healing.
Bill Reid, Swg’ag’an Sockeye Salmon Pool, 1991, serigraph on paper. Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection, 2002.1.43 Photo by Kenji Nagai courtesy Bill Reid Gallery.
Reflecting the Indigenous diversity that exists across B.C. and Yukon, the show includes modern carving, classic weaving, wearable art, metalwork, abstract photography, surrealist painting, conceptual installation, and more.
“Central to Bright Futures is how contemporary Indigenous artists of the Northwest Coast seize new materials and interpret Bill Reid’s legacy today,” Carter says in a release. “Bill Reid was a leader and influencer in building a broader understanding of Northwest Coast art, and combining traditional Haida elements with new techniques and materials. In the examination of traditional culture and familial lineage within his own works, coupled with those of his fellow artists, Bill Reid found inspiration and opportunities for an innovative and bright future.”
Yolonda Skelton, Chilkat Dress and Eagle Train, 2022. Pleated Chiffon and Ponti Dress with Beaver fur trim. Ultrasuede Appliqued Cuffs and Removable Wool Suiting Appliqued Eagle Train. Photo courtesy of the artist/Bill Reid Gallery
Participating Bright Futures artists, many of whom are making their debut, include Tamara Bell (Haida), Sherri Dick (Haida), Rebecca Baker-Grenier (Kwag’ul/Squamish), Shoshanna Greene (Haida), Maynard Johnny Jr (Kwakwaka’wakw/Salish), Keith Kerrigan (Haida), Cody Lecoy (Sylix/Lekwungen), Latham Mack (Nuxalk), Calvin Morberg (Teslin Tlingit), Kelly Robinson (Nuxalk), Natasha Seymour (Tahltan/Tsimshian/Nisga’a), Yolonda Skelton (Gitxsan), Krystle Silverfox (Northern Tutchone/Selkirk), and Dustin Sheldon (Teslin Tlingit).
Some examples of works on display include Seymour’s beaded Button Blanket Earrings, a modern, intricate take on the traditional button blanket shaped by her deep knowledge of Tahltan, Tsimshian and Nisga’a traditions and cultures; Johnny Jr’s Protector, a silkscreen print that highlights his Salish style, connection to ancient ideologies, and a vibrant colour palette that represents hope and freedom; and Skelton’s Chilkat Dress with Eagle Train, a contemporary robe of power that acts as a symbol of decolonization and celebration of Indigenous culture.
Bill Reid, Wire Bull, 1986, gold. Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection, 2002.1.67 Photo by Kenji Nagai courtesy Bill Reid Gallery
Each of the artworks will respond to one or more of pieces by Reid, whose approach evolved throughout his career, from copying traditional Haida designs to later re-interpreting Haida stories and aesthetics via his distinct vision. Reid’s works in the exhibition run the gamut from metalwork miniatures and jewellery to wire sculptures, carvings, and monumental sculptures.
Several events, including workshops, artist talks, curatorial tours, and a contemporary Indigenous artist market, will take place during the exhibition’s run. More details are at billreidgallery.ca.
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