The Ha̲mdzat̓si Collective in front of the new entryway mural ‘Trials and Tribulations’ by Kwakwaka’wakw artist James Kwaksistala
The CRAG celebrates their new entryway mural!
On Friday July 17th, the CRAG invited friends, family and members of the public last to celebrate Kwakwaka’wakw artist James Kwaksistala’s new entrance mural, Trials and Tribulations. We are honoured to have powerful artwork with a deep message to welcome all who visit us and to greet our staff each day!
About the mural:
Rendered in the traditional Kwakwaka’wakw style, ‘Trials and Tribulations’ transforms the gallery doors into a meaningful cultural threshold. Framing the entrance, two eagles spread their wings inward so that all who enter pass directly between them.
The mural features rich traditional iconography, including figures contending over a copper, the traditional emblem of wealth and status. It also depicts human figures falling into the open mouth of the sisiutl, a powerful double-headed serpent.
“The sisiutl grants strength to those who face it,” explains artist James Kwaksistala. “To go in headfirst is to meet what we fear undefended, the act of humbling oneself—to die to a self better left behind, and be reborn stronger.”
