The talents of Kwantlen First Nation artists were in the spotlight when the 91原创 Centennial Museum opened its newest exhibit, 鈥淗ere and Now: Contemporary Kwantlen First Nations Art鈥� earlier this month.

Featuring the work of Brandon Gabriel and Phyllis Atkins, the exhibit highlights the connection between Kwantlen First Nation鈥檚 past and present.

Works in the exhibit explore the diverse methods and inspirations of both artists, and many pieces have particular significance for the entire Kwantlen First Nation.

One of the most substantial pieces is a 25-foot canoe. Over the years, the canoe has travelled down many exciting and challenging waterways.

It has recently undergone refurbishments, including a new frame, seating, and gunnel made entirely from Stanley Park cedar that fell during the great winter storm of 2006.

The canoe was painted by Gabriel and was given a proper name at the exhibit鈥檚 opening reception: 鈥渉iyakw e te stahluxw鈥� which is hun鈥檆em鈥檈num (Salish language) for 鈥淐hief of the River.鈥�

Atkins鈥� oil paintings also depict the community of the Kwantlen.

Many of her paintings express the Kwantlen鈥檚 journey of life and the sacredness of precious resources.

Her 鈥淪almon鈥� painting represents the importance of the salmon industry to Kwantlen peoples.

This work also is inspired by her husband鈥檚 carvings, which are on display at the corner of River Road and Mavis Street in Fort 91原创.

The full house at the opening enjoyed a salmon dinner, a blanketing ceremony, and a traditional canoe blessing with drums and songs, which was the first of its kind for the Kwantlen First Nation in 100 years.

The exhibit continues until August 29.