UNBC launches cedar plank project
The public will get a chance to watch artist Clayton Gauthier put his skills to work as he carves each of 32 panels selected to celebrate the diversity of First Nations across northern B.C.
Until all the panels are completed, the member of the Cree and Dakelh First Nations will be on the University of Northern Prince George campus twice a week.
He will be found in room 7-204 near the Canfor Winter Garden, across from security, on Mondays and Thursdays and while Gauthier will work alone in the mornings, all are welcome to join him to chat and learn while he’s working from 1 to 3 p.m. on those days.
The project was launched Monday. “This is a special opportunity for the university to partner with multiple Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation,” said UNBC president Dr. Daniel Weeks.
“This project allows the entire campus community to learn from a highly-respected artist as he shares his expertise and knowledge.”
Once completed, the panels will be installed in the Gathering Place at UNBC.
“I really see the significance of art within the community and worldwide,” Gauthier said. “Art is a powerful gift that we have from the Creator. We are surrounded by art, so having that understanding that this is art from this territory, I feel that’s really important.”
Gauthier is also the artist behind a cedar sign now in place at Prince George Secondary School. He’s also a published author of the children’s book, The Salmon Run.