The SCMA’s latest exhibit Kwekwinmut / Pieces of the Past opened on Tuesday, October 4th to a crowd of excited spectators who witnessed a symbolic return of the Squamish people to their traditional land. Although many people are aware of the Shishalh (Sechelt) Nation's claim to much of the Sunshine Coast as their traditional home, many are unaware that for thousands of years, the Squamish Nation also thrived on this landscape from present day Gibsons all the way Robert's Creek.
Over a hundred visitors celebrated this symbolic return by witnessing a traditional welcome by Chief Ian Campbell, numerous speeches by Squamish elders, curators and local dignitaries. Afterwards, the audience was enthralled as they explored the stone tool artifacts that make up the heart of the exhibit, marveling at the craftpersonship and questions that inevitably arose:
How long would it take to make?
What was this used for?
Just how old are these stone tools?
Well, I could give you the answers to these questions right now, but I think it is best for you to come down to the SCMA and explore the exhibit for yourself. There are real lessons to be learned about our surroundings, and Kwekwinmut / Pieces of the Past is a great starting point in helping to redefine our perspective on this place that we call the Sunshine Coast.
