Last spring, the TICA board was approached by an anonymous donor who wished to facilitate commissioning an original Indigenous artwork by Penelakut artist Maynard Johnny Jr. (Coast Salish - Kwagiulth) in the spirit of reconciliation. After careful consideration, the TICA Board has accepted the donation, which will fund the creation, fabrication, and installation of the artwork on the exterior of the expanded Forbes Hall Community Center. The funds will also support an appropriate dedication and ceremony involving members of the Penelakut community.
The art will speak to the historical links between Thetis and Penelakut Islands and to the Thetis community’s connection with the Penelakut people, who have lived on these lands for thousands of years. A background story of the images in the art was gifted by Penelakut Elder Florence James and will be part of the installation.
We look forward to sharing more about the art installation and are grateful that TICA will now have two major artworks by Penelakut artists on display at our new hall.
Gus Modeste's carving will be mounted and featured on the wall directly ahead as one enters Forbes Hall.
TICA Board
View samples of Maynard Johnny Jr.’s artwork at: https://www.lattimergallery.com/collections/maynard-johnny-jr