Squamish Nation Sculpture Design Selected for Ambleside Park

The Squamish Nation Sculpture Symposium Selection Panel is very excited to announce their unanimous endorsement of a contemporary sculpture design submitted by Xwa-lack-tun (Rick Harry), a Squamish Nation artist whose works are recognized internationally. The proposed sculpture will be situated near the entrance to Ambleside Park at 13th Street to welcome all park visitors – both residents and visitors alike. The design echoes the Lions Gate Bridge which was named after “The Lions,” two peaks that the Squamish people call the "The Twins” or “Sisters.” The place name for the range is Ch'ich'iyuy, the Twins and speaks to how twin Squamish high born sisters helped bring peace between the Squamish and Haida people. ...more

Xwa lack tun was born in Squamish and currently resides in the Xwemelchstn community in West Vancouver. He received his education from Emily Carr College of Art and Capilano College. Xwa-lack-tun has recently returned from a trip to Scotland where he was invited to demonstrate his unique carving techniques to promote the country's totem pole project. He and his team are excited about this opportunity to create and develop new expressions of Squamish Art right at home. ...more

The Selection Panel consists of five highly respected members of the First Nations arts community including a museum curator, a gallery owner, a prominent art collector, a First Nations educator, and a practicing artist. This committee was tasked with the responsibility of choosing a design proposal under a set of selection criteria. “The design reflects Coast Salish tradition in contemporary art form. It will be a beautiful and unique landmark for West Vancouver” commented Bill McLennan, Curator of the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia.

A lecture symposium and exhibition, to coincide with the timing of the installation, is being planned. Read Full Media Release.