UBC’s Museum of Anthropology Focuses New Lens on Indigenous History in Vancouver (Opening June 13)

ByJohn Goodman June 12, 2024September 13, 2024

First Nations Parade Float Vancouver 1946 — Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation community members wave to the crowd from their float in the Diamond Jubilee Parade, Vancouver, July 1, 1946. Sḵwx̱wú7mesh elder August Jack Khatsahlano can be seen sitting between two men on the flatbed truck wearing dark clothing with his legs hanging down over the side, almost touching the tire. The photograph on the cover of the book, “Conversations with Khahtsahlano, 1932–1954,” may have been taken the same day. Photo: City of Vancouver Archives 371-34

UBC’s Museum of Anthropology is presenting the world premiere of a multimedia exhibition of large-scale archival photographs and film documenting Indigenous participation in urban public spaces during the first half of the 20th century. Many of the images come from press coverage of events that took place in Vancouver, such as the city’s 1946 Diamond Jubilee celebrations. “To Be Seen, To Be Heard: First Nations in Public Spaces, 1900-1965” features large-scale projections of historical photographs and film accompanied by contemporary audio commentary from Indigenous community members recontextualizing the historical imagery. The exhibition marks the reopening of MOA on June 13 at 5 p.m. after an 18-month closure to complete seismic upgrades to the Great Hall. A second major show, the Western Canadian premiere of New Zealand/Māori Lisa Reihana’s epic work, “in Pursuit of Venus [infected],” opens the same day.

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John Goodman

John Goodman finds the creative energy of journalism constantly inspiring. He's covered the Vancouver arts scene as a reporter, editor, and designer for many years. As a longtime North Shore resident he's always keen to explore all that Metro Vancouver has to offer.