Wiḥiiya: Ashore - A Virtual Exhibit of Nuu-chah-nulth Prints
The Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation (meaning “all along the mountains and sea”) is comprised of fifteen culturally related bands which inhabit Vancouver Island's west coast. The Nuu-chah-nulth people have lived on this land for millennia, during which time they have developed a distinct culture and artistic style within the broader Northwest Coast Indigenous realm. Very generally, Nuu-chah-nulth art can be characterized by its uniquely proportioned and composed forms: generally, a mix of large solid shapes with particular areas of unusually high detail arranged in asymmetrical, multi-element compositions. We often see complex stories told through the interactions between these elements, be they mythic, historical, educational, or personal. We hope to present a limited overview of this region -- its myths, legends, histories, and cultural practice -- through a selection of Nuu-chah-nulth prints from our archives.
This show features artwork from Nuu-chah-nulth artists Patrick Amos (Mowachaht), Joe David (Tla-o-qui-aht), Ron Hamilton (Hupacasath), Tim Paul (Hesquiaht), and Art Thompson (Ditidaht).
