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)
Formline : Calligraphy, The Creative Synergy of Bill Reid and Bob Reid
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art presents the Canadian premiere of Formline : Calligraphy, The Creative Synergy of Bill Reid and Bob Reid from September 18, 2024 – January 26, 2025. Guest curated by Dr. Martine Reid, the exhibition explores the creative relationship between Haida artist Bill Reid and famed printmaker, calligrapher, and close friend Robert (Bob) Reid. Featuring two-and-three-dimensional works from both artists, the exhibition focuses on their collaborative works, as well as Bill Reid’s writing and other archival materials. Formline : Calligraphy reveals an exciting spirit of experimentation and playfulness, as well as a mutual commitment to excellence, highlighting the artists’ ongoing influence on artists today. Admission information and exhibition details at: billreidgallery.ca
(Bill Reid Gallery, 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, Sep. 18 - Jan. 26)
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)
Veterans Art Show & Exhibition
The Veterans Art Show & Exhibition highlights the artistic talents of Canadian veterans and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, offering a powerful glimpse into their journeys of healing. Created to celebrate the Invictus Games 2025, hosted in Whistler and Vancouver from February 8–16, the exhibit features a diverse collection of visual art curated by the Veterans Artist Collective and sponsored by True Patriot Love.
Each piece reflects deeply personal stories and experiences, illustrating the transformative and therapeutic role of art in fostering resilience and recovery. This exhibition provides veterans with a space to express themselves, connect with the community, and share their narratives. By exploring these works, viewers can engage with the profound connection between art and healing, while celebrating the strength, individuality, and creativity of our military heroes.
(Maury Young Arts Centre, Whistler, Jan. 15 - Feb. 15)
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)
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)
"Ruth Beer: Seep | Swell" Tour and Publication Launch
Ruth Beer: Seep | Swell
Tour and Publication Launch
Saturday, January 25 | 2 – 5PM
Artist tour begins at Burnaby Art Gallery at 2PM
Shuttle transportation to Art Gallery at Evergreen from 3 – 3:30PM
Catalogue Launch and Reception from 3:30 – 5PM
Join us on Saturday, January 25th for an artist-led tour and the publication launch of Ruth Beer: Seep| Swell, an exhibition in two parts at the Art Gallery at Evergreen and Burnaby Art Gallery. Beginning at 2pm, tour the exhibition at Burnaby Art Gallery with artist Ruth Beer, followed by an “Art Bus” shuttle service to the Art Gallery at Evergreen for the publication launch and refreshments. The tour will be approximately 30 minutes; catalogue launch will begin at approximately 2:30pm.
There are twenty spots available on the art bus shuttle. $5/seat. The gallery tours are wheelchair accessible, however, the complimentary shuttle service is not equipped with a wheelchair lift.
ABOUT THE EXHIBITION
The Art Gallery at Evergreen in Coquitlam and the Burnaby Art Gallery co-present the exhibition Ruth Beer: Seep | Swell, an exhibition in two parts. Taking place across the two galleries concurrently, this exhibition contemplates Beer’s artistic research on the entwined relationships between humankind and our industries.
For decades, Beer has used sculpture to explore the depictions, constructs and myths of landscape. Her dynamic practice revolves around an ecological examination of our rapidly transforming Pacific Northwest region. Beer’s early explorations of minimalist abstract and elemental forms have evolved into an interest in materials and their relationship to culture and society. In the artist’s hands, raw natural materials are shaped through the cultural and sociopolitical forces that harvest them. Through an array of materially seductive artworks—glistening copper weavings, tapestries, bronze and ceramic stones, woven photographs and prints on paper—Beer offers timely reflections on themes related to belonging, human-land relationships and the pressing climate crisis.
"Ruth Beer: Seep | Swell" is co-produced between the Art Gallery at Evergreen and the Burnaby Art Gallery, curated by Katherine Dennis and Jennifer Cane.
(Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, Jan. 25, 2:00 p.m)
Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Free Admission
We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the opening of our latest exhibition, Kihl ‘Yahda Christian White: Master Haida Artist.
It will be an unforgettable afternoon, featuring delicious food, refreshing beverages, and captivating dance performances. The artist will also be joining us—don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet him in person!
This exhibition is the first major solo exhibition of Haida artist Kihl ‘Yahda, Christian White. Guest curated by Sdahl Ḵ'awaas, Lucy Bell, also of the Haida Nation, the exhibition features artworks that span the entirety of Christian’s 50-year career, as well as collaborative works from several of his apprentices.
Learn more: https://www.billreidgallery.ca/blogs/exhibitions-page/kihl-yahda-christian-white-master-haida-artist
(Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, 639 Hornby Street, Vancouver, Feb. 1, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m)
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)
Mastering the Cricut Machine Workshop
Join our Cricut Creations class to Create Stunning Home Decor, Wedding Projects, and More! Over four sessions, you'll learn to design and create custom home décor, stylish party supplies, elegant wedding items, and personalized gifts. Master the Cricut machine and unleash your creativity while making beautiful projects for any occasion!
(Silk Purse Studio, 1570 Argyle St, West Vancouver, Jan. 21 - Feb. 11)
Mashup: Winter Art Cards Night
Spend a cozy evening in our museum with some hot drinks and relax by making your own art trading cards to trade, give away, or keep for yourself. Art trading cards are a movement of creating miniature pieces first started in 1997 when Swiss artist Vanci Stirnemann invited guests to create mini art cards to trade with him, it’s now practiced around the world!
Stop by the museum anytime during our open hours of 3pm-9pm to learn more about art trading cards and make your own. All materials provided.
(Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House, 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam, Jan. 24, 3:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m)
Upcycling Workshop
Come learn the expressive art of painting with the delicate craft of embroidery in this three session workshop. Explore how to blend these two mediums, using paint to create vibrant backgrounds and adding intricate stitched details to bring texture and depth to your work. Join us to emphasize upcycling by repurposing old fabrics, garments, or canvas as a base for painting and embroidery. Transform discarded materials into art, & learn creative techniques contributing to a more sustainable approach to making.
Three dates: Jan 26, Feb 2 & Feb 9
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 - Hobby Arts Room, Jan. 26, Feb. 2 & Feb. 9)
Drop-in Valentines Card Making
Drop in on February 1 and 8, anytime during our open hours to make some Valentines Day cards! Learn a little about the love letters throughout history and make a card to give out or keep for yourself this Valentines Day.
All materials will be provided.
(Coquitlam Heritage at Mackin House, 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam, Feb. 1 & 8, 10:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m)
Artmania Kids Valentines Day Card Workshop
Join our Valentine Card Making Workshop! In this 90-minute session, kids aged 6-12 will unleash their creativity by designing unique cards for friends and family. They'll also carve their own stamps to personalize their creations, using a variety of supplies and fun techniques. A perfect way to celebrate creativity!
(Silk Purse Studio, 1570 Argyle St, West Vancouver, Feb. 8)
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)
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)
