Lyle Wilson | Unforgotten: A reverence for K'wax-thlau (wood)

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Lyle Wilson, Haisla Nation, “Qoluun (Beaver) Totem Pole,” no date

yellow Cedar wood, Abalone shell, (image courtesy of Jimmy Luk)

Lyle Wilson’s upcoming solo exhibition, Unforgotten: A Reverence for K’wax-thiau, is a celebration of wood’s natural beauty—Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, Yew, Maple, and Wild Crabapple—brought to life in an exceptional collection opening on November 30, 2024, at Coastal Peoples Gallery in Gastown.

Renowned for his deep devotion to Haisla art, language, and culture, Lyle has dedicated his career to honouring and advancing Indigenous expression. This exhibition, culminating over 30 years of artistry, reflects his profound understanding of each wood’s character and possibility. With decades of mastery and boundless insight, Lyle brings to life a series of works that blend refined craftsmanship with a deep reverence for Haisla heritage.

At the heart of this collection lies the preservation of Haisla stories and language—echoes of a culture that have endured across generations, first through oral tradition and now through written word. Lyle’s commitment to conveying these narratives through art emphasizes not only beauty but also the profound responsibility of cultural stewardship. His works are vibrant expressions of Haisla identity, carefully crafted with sensitivity to design, detail, and the enduring power of dialect, with many pieces bearing titles in Haisla as a tribute to their origins.

We invite you to experience an exhibition that transcends artistry, where each piece is a testament to Lyle Wilson’s dedication to the vitality and preservation of Indigenous culture, language, and heritage. His work is both a personal journey and a cultural legacy that speaks eloquently to the enduring spirit of the Haisla people.