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ABOVE BOARD

DECEMBER 2011 
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Greetings!

 

For me, the incredible potential that our museum holds was revealed last week at the opening night of "Chátwilh: The Craft and Culture of the Squamish Canoe." In partnership with the Squamish Nation we have created a beautiful and compelling exhibition in which the life of a hand carved cedar canoe is shown to be metaphor for culture, life, struggle and beauty. At their best, this is what museums (of all sizes and types) aspire to do -- to interpret  history, forge new partnerships and successfully appeal to, inspire and engage diverse audiences.

When this is done well, museum directors should not be reticent about tooting their trumpets.

So toot, toot for 2011, we have made a start at the renewal of the VMM. There is a long way to go, but it's important to enjoy the journey as from a hand carved canoe. Thank you for your support this year. I wish you joy for the holiday season and a wonderful New Year.  


Sincerely,

 

Simon Robinson  

Executive Director 
 MUSEUM MEMBERS
 
Members Only Night

Please join us for a special members only night on Thursday, December 8th  from 6-8 pm.
  • St. Roch Engine Room Tours and the new exhibit: Chátwilh: The Craft and Culture of the Squamish Canoe;
  • Holiday Crafts for all ages;
  • Museum Gift Shop will be open to buy unique stocking stuffers or books (Members will get 20% off prices this one night only!);
  • Hot Chocolate and cookies for the kids (and adults!).
Please RSVP to membership@vancouvermaritimemuseum.com
 MUSEUM PROGRAMS
 

VMM Members: Please pick up your complimentary Winter Wander passports at the VMM admissions desk.

MUSEUM EXHIBITS
 
For countless generations, Squamish people hunted, fished, gathered resources, engaged in battle, and welcomed visitors from their canoes. Across the region that would become Vancouver, these were the vehicles that literally bound together life on the land and sea. This special exhibition will take visitors through the lifecycle of a Squamish canoe-from its roots in a stand of local temperate rainforest, through the hands of Squamish craftsmen, and throughout the Salish Sea. Squamish carvers are renowned for crafting seven types of specialized canoes. Discover how these watercraft continue to connect the Squamish people to each other and the wider world.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the Vancouver Police's nautical activities we will be telling the story of this maritime arm of the police.  The exhibit will consist of photographs illustrating the Unit's history and how it has grown and developed.