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Canoe

Artist:
Matthew Baker
Year: 2024
Type: 
  • Sculpture
Medium(s): 
  • Paint
  • Wood
Status: In Place

Description

A carved canoe sits in the Oceanfront playground for children to sit in and play with. It features a First Nations person holding a paddle on each side painted in black and red.

Artist Statement

The canoe was carved as an artist in residency at Sta’7mes school by Matthew Baker and his son Liam Baker. The carvers used traditional carving methods, teaching the students how to construct a dug out canoe in the process.

It represents the transformative journey of the Xaay’s Brothers.

Matthew Baker (Squamish Nation). Matthew is a carver born in 1966 on the Capilano Reservation in North Vancouver, BC. His mother is Kwak’waka’wakw and his father is Coast Salish. Matthew was taught by his late father Dick Baker, a master totem carver. Matthew carves panels, masks, rattles and totem poles in traditional Coast Salish and Kwak’waka’wakw styles. His carvings depict ancestors, animals, spirits and ancient stories.

He also specializes in hand carved jewelry. He is a master jeweller who creates Northwest Coast Native pieces in gold, silver with gold onlay, and set stones. His traditional designs and smooth expert style make his creations widely sought after.

Beyond his individual creations, Baker is committed to community engagement and cultural revitalization. He actively participates in workshops and mentorship programs, sharing his knowledge and skills with younger generations. He believes that art is a vital tool for preserving and transmitting cultural knowledge, ensuring that the stories and traditions of his ancestors continue to thrive.

Location

Address:
37321, Galbraith Avenue, Squamish, British Columbia, V8B 0S8, Canada.

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