By Quinn BenderHaida Gwaii ObserverThe Canadian Museum of History and the McCord Museum in Montréal have announced the travelling exhibition, Haida: Life. Spirit. Art., will be heading to Greece for presentation at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.The exhibition, running from Oct. 26 to April next year, is intended to introduce Greek audiences to what exhibitors are calling the remarkable sophistication and complexity of the Haida culture. It features a collection of historical and contemporary artworks from the Museum of History and the McCord Museum. It also includes contemporary works and images from the collection of the Haida Gwaii Museum.”While our visitors will marvel at exquisite treasures drawn from the collections of 21 Greek museums, visitors to the Archaelogical Museum of Thessaloniki will have the opportunity to experience our country’s rich history in their own community,” explained Jean-Marc Blais, director general of the Canadian Museum of History. “We are proud to present them with an exhibition that will enhance their understanding of the rich and enduring cultures of our First Peoples.”Most of the objects in the exhibition date from the 18th and 19th centuries that reflect both the skill of Haida artists and the richness of the ancient culture. The artifacts range from intricate bentwood boxes to a beautifully painted woven hat; from carved fish hooks to model totem poles, offering insights for unfamiliar audiences into a culture that took root thousands of years ago and remains vibrant today. “This exhibition will focus international attention on the ancient and enduring culture of the Haida and their incomparable and beautiful homeland, Haida Gwaii – a place that has inspired Haida artists for thousands of years and continues to produce some of Canada’s most talented artists today,” said Scott Marsden, executive director of the Haida Gwaii Museum. “We’re proud to be a partner in this important initiative.”The travelling exhibition Haida: Life. Spirit. Art. is produced by the Canadian Museum of History and the McCord Museum in collaboration with the Haida Gwaii Museum.”We are very pleased to be associated with the Canadian Museum of History in producing this travelling exhibition and bringing our extraordinary collection to Greece,” said Suzanne Sauvage, president and CEO of the McCord Museum. “We want to thank Â… the Haida Gwaii Museum for its invaluable participation, which will ensure the project is a success.”
