social network
NATIVE SON Bill Reid ranked among Canada’s finest and celebrated artists, and his influence and body of work can be found throughout the province and country. The Haida artist — a master goldsmith, sculptor and carver — was a pivotal force behind the renaissance of Northwest Coast art and traditions.
His works — ranging from exquisite carvings in precious metals to monumental sculptures in cedar and bronze — have been exhibited, cherished and collected locally and abroad. In Vanhattan, his stunning works can be seen welcoming visitors to the Vancouver airport, Museum of Anthropology and Vancouver Aquarium.
In 2008, the Bill Reid Foundation opened The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in Vancouver to commemorate his contributions and influence. Reid died in 1998 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s. The only public gallery dedicated to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast art, the downtown cultural gem recently marked its 10th anniversary with a celebratory gala to raise a glass to the B.C. artist, support future programming and ensure emerging and established Indigenous artists have the opportunity to exhibit in the recently expanded space.
Led by Douglas Reynolds, Fei Wong and an influential committee of art patrons, more than 150 guests took in the Raven’s Feast. The celebratory evening brought together artists, donors and community supporters, who made it possible for the gallery to honour the legacy of Bill Reid, reveal the diverse cultures of the Northwest Coast and promote cross-cultural understanding. Hosted by CBC’s Stephen Quinn, party highlights included a multi-course Northwest Coast themed-dinner, live performance by Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson, and auction of exceptional art and experiences. Masterful works by Reid, Rande Cook, Luke Marston and Cory Bulpitt contributed to a $100,000-plus night.