Placemaking Project Celebrating Lək̓ʷəŋən Artworks Launches in Victoria
Inner Harbour welcomes art installations with Xʷsepsəm Nation and Songhees Nation
VICTORIA, BC (September 4, 2024) — The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA), together with Xʷsepsəm Nation and Songhees Nation, has launched a collaborative placemaking project to install Lək̓ʷəŋən artworks in downtown Victoria, aimed at connecting residents and visitors to the area’s rich First Nations’ culture.
Placemaking is a concept that expresses a community’s identity through art, design, or architecture. The project’s first artworks are viewable at the Inner Harbour causeway, including four red and yellow octopus umbrellas designed by Songhees artist and educator Clarence “Butch Dick” (Yux’wey’lupton), two sea-wolves with land and seascapes on the Inner Harbour marina gates designed by artists John Warren and Lajah Warren, and hummingbird banners on lampposts on the south side of the lower causeway by Songhees artist Brianna Bear.
“It’s exciting to see Lək̓ʷəŋən artwork showing the connection between our people and this place; it has been an important meeting place for generations,” said Hereditary Chief Ed Thomas (čaleŋən hiwəs sínupn), Xʷsepsəm Nation.
“This initiative not only highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Songhees and Xʷsepsəm Nations but also strengthens our shared commitment to celebrating and preserving Indigenous art and traditions,” said Chief Ron Sam, Songhees Nation.
A stylized metal gate featuring a sea otter and salmon, designed by Xʷsepsəm artist Darlene Gait, has been installed at a dock entrance by Ship Point. Four more dock gates will be installed in the coming months. An orca family artwork, by Songhees artist Melissa McClurg, has been placed on a dock pile in the Inner Harbour marina.
PacifiCan provided $49,000 in funding, which was matched by the GVHA. PacifiCan is the federal economic development agency for British Columbians and helps businesses, not-for-profits and communities grow stronger.
“British Columbia’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty make it a world-class destination. Supporting initiatives like the GVHA’s Lək̓ʷəŋən placemaking project will help vibrant communities like Victoria celebrate and preserve Indigenous art and culture and enhance tourism experiences. With PacifiCan’s help, communities across B.C. are showcasing what makes our province special and cherished by both locals and visitors alike,” said the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada.
“We are thrilled to be part of this project,” said Robert Lewis-Manning, CEO of the GVHA. “It continues to be an amazing experience working with such a talented group of artists. We appreciate the guidance and wisdom provided by both Nations during this project.”
To learn more about the artists and artworks, visit the Inner Harbour or the GVHA’s website.
High-resolution images of the artworks are available here and a video of the artists is available for download here. Please credit the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority for both.
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About the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority
The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that is committed to the stewardship and sustainable growth of Victoria’s dynamic working harbour. GVHA owns and operates several high-profile community amenities, including the Ogden Point Breakwater, Inner Harbour lower causeway, Fisherman’s Wharf and Ship Point Pier. GVHA is certified as a Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Silver Member. Silver members recognize the value of working with Indigenous communities and showing outcomes that have made a difference, including investment in communities, people, employment programs and business partnerships.