SPRING EXHIBITIONS
MOA presents To Be Seen, To Be Heard: First Nations in Public Spaces, 1900–1965
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC reopens its doors to the public on June 13, 2024 at 5pm, following an 18-month closure that saw the successful completion of cutting-edge seismic upgrades to its Great Hall, coupled with updated interpretations and new displays of Northwest Coast Indigenous art. As part of the reopening, MOA will present the world premiere exhibition of To Be Seen, To Be Heard: First Nations in Public Spaces, 1900–1965, on display until March 30, 2025, in the Museum’s Audain Gallery. The immersive, multi-media exhibition explores the diverse ways that First Nations people in BC represented themselves as Indigenous in urban public spaces, during the period of potlatch prohibition and other forms of erasure in Canada. Looking back through rich archival material reveals the diverse ways that First Nations worked to be seen and heard striving to have their rights recognized—rights to their lands, their laws and their future. For admission details and exhibition information, visit: moa.ubc.ca
(Museum of Anthropology, Jun. 13 - Mar. 30)
Architecture of Memory: featuring the work of Valerie Pugh
Architecture of Memory is a solo exhibition of recent works by Valerie Pugh. Utilizing the interdisciplinary mediums of painting, sculpture, collage, and installation, Pugh explores themes of memory, home, imagination and dreams. Inspired by Gaston Bachelard’s book, The Poetics of Space, Pugh negotiates the distortion and formation of memory and explores how a lived experience is pieced back together during the act of recollection. Memories, which are often abstract in form, are represented as gestural swaths of vivid colour and generous layers of mark making. These abstractions are then constructed into recognizable architectural forms.
(The ACT Arts Centre, 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, Jan. 11 - Apr. 19)
order/chaos
As we navigate the world we often attempt to make sense of the events around us & qualify our experiences. Abstract artists Leanne Kiely & Shevy Levy use art making as their means of ordering the chaos & expressing the human condition. Presented by West Vancouver Community Arts Council & Kay Meek Arts Centre.
In her current body of work, Leanne Kiely explores the human experience of emotions by means of linework & her own visual language. Dancing between spontaneity & intentionality, Kiely has evolved a spectrum of symbols that, in themselves, represent a sense of the emotion she is trying to embody in her art. The linework in Kiely's pieces reflects the fluidity of emotions, meandering & interweaving to depict the ebb & flow of her inner world. Each stroke carries a purpose, capturing moments of introspection & unearthing profound truths that lie dormant within her. The infusion of bold colours in her work further amplifies the emotional impact. The hues she selects evoke visceral reactions, eliciting a shared emotional journey between the art & its audience. Through these intuitive explorations, Kiely is ordering the complexities of emotion into recognizable & relatable imagery. She invites the viewer to sit & absorb her work, to see if they can find commonality between her experiences & their own.
Painter Shevy Levy adores chaos because she loves to create order. For Levy it is important to not only see the instability & disorder of chaos but to see its real power as a fundamental, creative & evolutionary force. She works with materials & processes that allow her to maintain a high level of control (e.g pastels & pencils) combined with materials & processes that refuse to be controlled (e.g poured paints). This collision between order & chaos allows for a push & pull between Levy's own intentions & what the artwork wants to become. The tension between her own desire to control every aspect of the work - combined with the excitement that comes from the potential for unexpected things to happen - places her directly at the intersection of chaos & order within her own artistic process. Levy works in layered imagery, building complexity through the unexpected visual & conceptual connections that occur when visual information accumulates & erodes. The conversation that happens when organic forms meet geometric or when light meets shadow - all create new connections & opportunities for discovery.
(Kay Meek Arts Centre, 1700 Mathers Ave, West Vancouver, Jan. 14 - Feb. 23)
Walking Alongside Trauma
For the past 7 years, the iMPACTS initiative led by Professor Shaheen Shariff, McGill
University, has addressed sexual violence on university campuses across Canada and internationally. Invited to step outside the university setting, CCBC’s exhibition explores the ripple effect sexualize violence has across the many aspects of our society.
Informed by those who walk alongside trauma every day, this exhibition examines structures, attitudes and beliefs that could amplify, but most often diminish, our ability to equitably address some of the root causes of sexualize violence.
Featuring Artists:
rachael ashe, bridget catchpole, nevada christianson, deborah dumka, hope forstenzer,
amy gogarty, eleanor hannan, benjamin kikkert, bettina matzkuhn, sarah montroy,
louise perrone, shaheen shariff & debra sloan
Curator:
raine mckay
(Amelia Douglas Gallery, 4th flr. N, Douglas College; 700 Royal Ave. New Westminster. One block from New Westminster Sky Train Station, Jan. 16 - Feb. 28)
CLEAN SLATE
To begin something with a clean slate is to clear away evidence of the past so that one can attempt to make a fresh start. This group exhibition will consider both the challenges and opportunities that arise when one is faced with a blank canvas. CLEAN SLATE features the artwork of Ece Asitanelioğlu, Sandra Bérubé, Bella Blanca, Cece Cheung, Lindsay Cohen, Sarah Dufresne, Sebastian Fuertes Pelayo, Grace Gordon-Collins, Heather Lane, Brandon Leung, Naomi Leung, Khim Mata Hipol, Yin Mei, Katie Rodgers, Michael Rozen, Mahin Sharilli, Tala Shayegan, Jim Stewart, Andrew Tavukciyan, Jing Xia, and Ketty Haolin Zhang.
(CityScape Community ArtSpace, 335 Lonsdale Avenue, Jan. 17 - Mar. 1)
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents Kihl ‘Yahda Christian White: Master Haida Artist
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents the Vancouver premiere of the retrospective exhibition Kihl ‘Yahda Christian White: Master Haida Artist, on display February 1, 2025 – February 1, 2026. The exhibition is an expansive examination of the multidisciplinary Haida artist – whose work ranges from intricate argillite carvings and monumental sculptures to ocean going cedar canoes and gold and silver jewelry – as well as his lifelong commitment to the preservation and celebration of Haida stories, songs, and dances. The exhibition will also feature numerous carved works created in collaboration with eight of White’s key apprentices, representing the next generation of contemporary Haida artists. A series of public programs, featuring White and his apprentices, will take place during the exhibition’s year-long run - including an artist talk, a panel discussion, and art demonstrations. For admission information and complete event details, visit: billreidgallery.ca
(Bill Reid Gallery, Feb. 1 - Feb. 1, 2026)
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents Spirit of the Ancestors
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents the West Coast premiere of Spirit of the Ancestors, on display from February 12 - May 4, 2025. A retrospective exhibition of multi award winning Tahltan Nation artist Terrence Campbell, Spirit of the Ancestors will span his extraordinary 35-year career -- from his early beginnings to his current creations -- showcasing his singular artistry, largely inspired by his ancestors and his deep connection to the spirit world. Campbell began training in Northwest Coast art at the age of 22 under prominent carvers Demsey Bob and his sister, Dale Campbell. The exhibition will display Campbell’s distinctive and innovative style through a collection of his paintings, cedar carvings, and exquisite jewelry work -- for which he is best known. His silver jewelry combines a unique blend of traditional Northwest Coast and Southwestern design details in each of the one-of-a-kind pieces. Patrons are invited to the opening celebration at the gallery on February 12 from 6 to 8 pm, where Campbell will be in attendance. For admission information, visit: billreidgallery.ca
(Bill Reid Gallery, Feb. 12 - May. 4)
there hidden, far beneath and long ago.
Moozhan Ahmadzadegan.
Opening | Thursday, February 20 | 6 PM to 8 PM.
Running February 20 to April 5, 2025.
Moozhan Ahmadzadegan is an artist based on the unceded and traditional territory of the Syilx Okanagan People, also known as Kelowna, BC. His artistic interests center on themes of queer culture, Iranian diaspora, and cultural in-betweenness. This spectrum of ideas serve as a point of access to deepen his understanding of contemporary social issues. Ahmadzadegan’s practice encompasses painting, screenprinting, textiles, and installation practices. Through these mediums, he investigates how we respond and engage with the colonial, social, and cultural structures that shape identity on personal, national, and public scales.
In there hidden, far beneath and long ago, Ahmadzadegan examines traditional Iranian art such as Persian miniatures, patterns, rugs, architecture, and poetry, and reimagines them through a queer lens. This approach symbolically carves out space for queer narratives within historically heteronormative frameworks, addressing the erasure of queer identities in various contexts. These themes resonate with the increased condemnation of queer people felt globally, including within his immediate community, in so-called Canada, and by the present government of Iran—the contemporary source of his influences.
By queering traditional Persian visuals and narratives, Ahmadzadegan reinterprets, reimagines, and reconfigures these elements to create new meanings and queer-inspired narratives. there hidden, far beneath and long ago emphasizes creative play and experimentation, allowing Ahmadzadegan to move away from overtly literal interpretations and embrace fluidity. His work serves as an entry point for exploring critical dialogues surrounding queer identity, diaspora, and cultural hybridity. Through this approach, he invites viewers to engage with these themes in nuanced and open ways.
(grunt gallery, #116–350 East 2nd Avenue, Vancouver, Feb. 20 - Apr. 5)
Nuxalk Strong: Dancing Down the Eyelashes of the Sun
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at UBC presents the world premiere of Nuxalk Strong: Dancing Down the Eyelashes of the Sun, on display at MOA from February 21, 2025–January 5, 2026. This first-of-its-kind exhibition is dedicated to showcasing the rich culture and worldview of the Nuxalk Nation, an Indigenous community that has lived and stewarded land on the central coast of BC for more than 14,000 years. Featuring treasures and artworks housed at MOA, and loans from six participating museums, private and Nuxalk family collections, Nuxalk Strong will highlight the resurging strength and sovereignty of the Nuxalk Nation as it heals from colonization. Witness how the community is reclaiming and restoring the knowledge found within their masks, regalia, weavings, and carvings for living and future generations. MOA will celebrate the opening of the exhibition on Thursday, February 20, from 6 to 9pm, with free museum admission for all. To learn more about the exhibition, visit moa.ubc.ca
(Museum of Anthropology, Feb. 21 – Jan. 5, 2026)
OTHER EVENTS
Artist Studio Time
Join other artists from diverse creative practices and work in a shared space! Build community, share inspiration, and support the practice of local artists across mediums and disciplines in a welcoming and inclusive environment. All disciplines, including writing, acting, and musicians are welcome.
(1564 Argyle St West Vancouver - Harmony Room, Jan. 10 - Mar. 14)
What Holds You Together?
For the creation of this installation friends and family were invited to join the project by providing a piece of writing. They were each asked to respond to the question “What holds you together?”
The responses received were very diverse, from old journal pages and poems, to personal
stories and musings. Each unique but similar in their experiences of sadness and trauma, fear and brokenness, messy moments of barely holding it together, mere threads keeping them from falling apart. Each unique in their experiences, but also very much the
same in the need to have a sort of joining thread. Montroy has been drawn to the motif of a patchwork quilt recently as a culturally rich object and vessel for speaking about what it is to be human. To be a person, patchworked together from a multitude of different stories, experiences, and more, coming together into a wonderful kaleidoscope of colours and textures. She took these words, along with some of her own poems and added the shredded paper fibers to clay slip, creating a material that is both strong to build with, and conceptually rich. The hope is for the viewers to engage with the work and take time to reflect on what holds them together.
(craft council of bc, Feb. 4- Mar. 4)
WORKSHOPS
Embossed Card Creations Workshop
Discover the art of printmaking in our Embossed Cards and more class! Using our professional printmaking press, led by skilled educator and artist Carley Gibbs, you'll create stunning embossed cards. Learn essential techniques and unleash your creativity in the hobby arts room. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike.
(The West Vancouver Community Centre - Hobby Arts Room, Jan. 11 - Feb. 22)
Smartphone Photography Workshop
Join our "Smartphone Photography: Capturing Life’s Moments" class to master the art of photography using your smartphone! Over six sessions, you'll learn composition, lighting techniques, and editing skills, while developing your storytelling abilities. Unleash your creativity and capture stunning images that showcase your unique perspective on the world!
*No class Feb 16 for Family Day Weekend
(The West Vancouver Community Centre - Hobby Arts Room, Jan. 12 - Feb. 23)
Crush of Colour Acrylic Painting Workshop
Join us and gain inspiration from the colours of the Pacific Ocean at sunset while painting in this supportive environment! Learn how to set up a palette, mix colours, apply paint, and compose an image as you explore the subject of your choice. Experiment with the styles that interest you most or dive into work of other artists.
Please enter through the door on the East Side of the building and head upstairs!
No class Sunday Feb 16th for Family Day Weekend
Drop in rate of $25 available
(The Music Box, 1564 Argyle St, West Vancouver - Harmony Room, Jan. 12 - Mar. 16)
Intro/Continuing Watercolour
Saturdays, February 1st–22nd
This class provides a solid foundation in watercolour techniques through accessible exercises, ideal for beginners and beneficial for all levels. It covers essential basics, boosting confidence before exploring more advanced themes.
Continuing Watercolour
Saturdays, March 1st–22nd
Building on February’s techniques, this class focuses on birch trees. The first session reviews foundational techniques, while subsequent classes guide participants in creating three paintings, each showcasing unique aspects of this inspiring subject. By the end, students will have a visual library of birch tree techniques.
Note: Completion of the Intro class is required for the Continuing class. If you took the Intro class in Fall 2024, you may register directly. Both sessions offer valuable insights for artists of all levels.
What to Expect:
• Techniques: Practice wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, glazing, lifting, and more.
• Visual Library: Build a collection of birch tree techniques.
Skills Learned:
• Master washes, advanced glazing, and texture creation.
• Apply composition and color theory effectively.
(Maplewood House, 399 Seymour River Pl, North Vancouver, Feb. 1 - 22 & Mar. 1 - 22, 10:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m)
Watercolour Pigments Workshop
Join us & learn how to create your own watercolour paints using natural pigments sourced from plants, minerals, and other organic materials. Explore the traditional art of paint-making, including how to extract and process pigments, mix them with binders, and create a palette of beautiful, eco-friendly colours. Take home your own set of handmade watercolours, along with the knowledge to continue making sustainable art materials.
*No experience necessary.
Instructor Elmira Sarreshtehdari is an artist, art researcher, and educator based in Canada. Elmira holds a BFA and MFA and is currently pursuing her PhD in Art Education at The University of British Columbia. She engages with various art materials and mediums, including drawing, participatory installation art, sound, and video performance, with a specific emphasis on embodied and affective socially engaged art practices. Since 2009, Elmira has actively curated, exhibited, and taught art both locally and internationally.
(1564 Argyle St West Vancouver - Harmony Room, Feb. 18)
UV Resin Family Fun Workshop
Join us for a Resin Art Workshop at The Silk Purse Art Studio! Create unique keychains, cufflinks, and pendants while exploring UV resin art. You will learn to bond elements and finish your creations with a sealing topcoat. Each family leaves with beautiful creations in a gift bag!
(Silk Purse Studio, 1570 Argyle St, West Vancouver, Feb. 25)
Colour Theory Workshop
Do you need more colour in your life? Would you like to see colour through an artist’s eyes? Join us and get excited about colour in this two-day workshop! Develop your knowledge and skills through practical exercises as you deepen your understanding of colour temperature, the principles of unity and harmony, and the three dimensions of colour (hue, value, and intensity).
(The West Vancouver Community Centre - Hobby Arts Room, Feb. 26 - Mar. 5)
Mashup: Activism Pins
Protest pins have been a staple in activism and demonstrations since the 20th century, from its use in supporting Pride to its presence in the on-going fight for women’s rights. Join our walk-in pin making night and create something to show your support for a cause you feel strongly about. Stop by the museum anytime during our open hours on Thursday March 6 and Friday March 7 to participate!
Mash-Up is our series of free events happening on select evenings each month. This series is focused around sharing and creating, and features topics like craft nights, book events, and show and tells. Be sure to check our website for upcoming topics.
(Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House, 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam, Mar. 6, 2:00 p.m & Mar. 7, 9:00 p.m)
Botanical Resin Workshop
Explore the basics of working with resin, including how to prepare and pour it, different methods for drying and preserving plants, and how to combine various materials within the resin. Learn techniques for arranging your chosen botanicals. Take home unique, handcrafted pieces that capture the natural beauty of plants in timeless resin art.
*No experience necessary.
Instructor Elmira Sarreshtehdari is an artist, art researcher, and educator based in Canada. Elmira holds a BFA and MFA and is currently pursuing her PhD in Art Education at The University of British Columbia. She engages with various art materials and mediums, including drawing, participatory installation art, sound, and video performance, with a specific emphasis on embodied and affective socially engaged art practices. Since 2009, Elmira has actively curated, exhibited, and taught art both locally and internationally
(The West Vancouver Community Centre - Art Studio 2nd Floor, Mar. 16)
Mixed Media Painting Classes
EDUCATION | Sonya Iwasiuk Art Studio | Mixed Media Painting Classes
Join Anytime - Ongoing classes
For beginners to practicing artists. Perfect for all levels of artists! If you don't have supplies, use mine!
Start your creative journey or take your paintings to the next level!
Learn new mixed media & painting techniques with various acrylic paint viscosities and interesting mediums, like fibre paste, crackle paste, moulding paste, gels, additives and unique grounds and finishes.
Discover beautiful colour combinations and learn about colour mixing, brushes and brushstrokes.
Explore interesting drawing techniques with charcoal, pencil, watercolour pencils, pastels, graphite powder, acrylic markers and more!
Experiment with creative techniques, like photo transfers, acrylic skins, gold leaf, plaster and textural elements.
**Start 8 consecutive weekly classes anytime!**
**COST - $425 + gst for 8 consecutive weekly classes, $100 + txs supply fee to use my paints and mediums.
**Weekly Class Times: Wednesdays 6 pm - 9 pm, Thursdays 10 am - 1 pm
Learn mixed media painting techniques with a GOLDEN Artist Educator and Mixed Media Master!
(Ongoing)
