June is Indigenous History Month—a time to honor the cultures, traditions and achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis, who have lived on this land since time immemorial.
There are many meaningful ways to learn, celebrate and reflect this month. You could attend a National Indigenous History Month event, read a book by an Indigenous author or watch a show or film by Indigenous creators. (Check out NVDPL and NVCL’s excellent Indigenous content guides.)
You could also learn more about Indigenous culture in your community by going on a self-guided tour of public art created by Indigenous artists. Below, we’ve highlighted 43 public artworks, located throughout the City and District of North Vancouver, that were created by local Coast Salish artists and those from other Indigenous Nations. Each piece shares a unique perspective on the region’s rich culture and heritage.
All of these artworks are part of North Vancouver’s public art program, which takes place on the traditional, unceded and ancestral territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation).
We encourage you to take time this month to find and appreciate some of these artworks. Below, we’ve shared more information about the ancestors, stories and teachings that inspired the artists to create these beautiful pieces. Click on the link below each piece to learn more.
Indigenous public art in North Vancouver
* Privately commissioned
NVRC respectfully acknowledges the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) Peoples on whose traditional, unceded territories we operate.