NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release 2008ARR0016-000954 June 30, 2008	Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
GOVERNMENT HOUSE TO HONOUR B.C. ABORIGINAL ART

VICTORIA – The Province is providing $100,000 to the First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council (the First Peoples’ Council) for talented B.C. Aboriginal artists to create an art display at Government House, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong announced today.

 

“Reconciliation is not just a legal term, but rather it has far reaching implications for everyone,” said the Honourable Steven Point, Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia. “The face of British Columbia has become more diverse, more informed and certainly more vocal. As lieutenant-governor, it is my great honour to support the work of First Nations artists in the province in order to achieve a better understanding among all peoples.”

 

 “British Columbia is fortunate to have many distinguished and talented Aboriginal artists,” said de Jong. “By featuring Aboriginal art work at Government House, the ceremonial home for all British Columbians, we are respecting Aboriginal achievements in history and introducing thousands of visitors to the rich tapestry of our province’s Aboriginal culture.”

 

The First Peoples’ Council is now calling for proposals from Aboriginal artists for the creation of four original, sculptural works of art and will unveil the models, including a totem, once the works are completed. The selected works will enhance the art collection at Government House and commemorate Lieutenant-Governor Steven Point of the Stó:lô Nation.

 

 “As the go-to organization for First Nations arts, language and culture revitalization in B.C., we are pleased to facilitate this unique opportunity for First Nations artists in the province,” said Tracey Herbert, executive director of the First Peoples’ Council. “This project will provide the chance for these artists to have their work recognized and appreciated by all British Columbians.”

 

The new works of Aboriginal art will be installed as part of BC150’s continuing celebrations. BC150 recognizes the 150^th anniversary of the founding of British Columbia. As part of BC150, the Province will commemorate Aboriginal places, sponsor opportunities to support B.C.’s talented Aboriginal artists and gather with Aboriginal leaders in meaningful recognition and reconciliation. The government of B.C. is encouraging British Columbians to join in celebrating the province’s cultural diversity, collective strengths and achievements.

 

Aboriginal artists who wish to apply can visit www.fphlcc.ca.

           

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Media contact:	Betty Nicholson Communications Director Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation 250 953-3211 250 920-8532 (cell)	Megan Lappi Communications Manager The First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council 250 652-5952 ext. 214
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