A First Nations artist is being featured as part of the 10th annual BC Culture Days.
Artist Fred Jackson, from Tzeachten First Nation, will speak about his art and the influences which have inspired him and driven his exploration of a variety of methods and mediums for native design, mural and landscape painting, carving, portrait, and graphic design. His mother wolf and cub design “The Bonding” was chosen for the 2018 Every Child Matters Orange Shirt Day.
The event will take place at the Hope Library on Sept. 28, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to attend.
Influenced by his surroundings of nature, Jackson began exploring his artistic abilities as a young child. The eyes of the wildlife have always inspired him to move forward in his artwork and to bring illustration to life. Contemporary art and custom designs are among his specialities. Jackson explored a variety of mediums and method for native design, portrait, carving, graphic design, mural and landscape painting.
The event in Hope is just part of a three-day celebration that encompasses a kaleidoscope of free, engaging activities and events taking place in Mission, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Hope, Fort Langley, and Langley.
This vibrant weekend of artistic expression will explore the intersection of creativity, the arts, and well-being. Featuring painting, theatre, experimental performance art, literature, design, cinema, and beyond, BC Culture Days is a thrilling family-friendly weekend that builds community, encourages exploration and discovery, and celebrates creativity in all its forms.
“Creative expression is vital for the health and wellness of a community,” says BC Culture Days Manager Nazanin Shoja. “We are proud to shine a light on the essential role arts and culture plays across the province to boost community engagement, foster deeper social connections, and build an understanding and appreciation for the collective artistic experience. With hundreds of engaging and exciting community events taking place across British Columbia, I have no doubt there will be an event that will cater to every taste and interest, while encouraging exploration into new artistic ventures!”
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, BC Culture Days has selected 10 emerging artists from across the province to act as cultural ambassadors in their respective communities, encouraging participation and presenting innovative activities across a broad spectrum of disciplines — including painting, animation, carving, poetry, theatre, and dance — as part of the weekend festivities. The artists’ biographies are available at: culturedays.ca/bc/ambassadors.
BC Culture Days will officially launch with a provincial kick-off event in Mission, B.C. on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Heritage Park Centre. Mission: A Mosaic of Cultures will showcase a broad range of cultural activities by notable and emerging artists from the Mission community. Beginning with the official opening ceremony, including a welcome by a representative of the Leq’á:mel First Nation, the public will be invited to participate and experience artist demos, hands-on arts and crafts, artist talks, storytelling, workshops, and samplings from Mission’s vibrant culinary scene.
During the Culture Days weekend, visitors are encouraged to attend the culture hub for the Fort Langley and surrounding regions — Fort Langley Culture Days Hub located at Fort Langley. To learn more about the events and activities offered at this community hub, please visit: culturedays.ca/hubs.
