Charles Edenshaw at the Vancouver Art Gallery

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American Museum of Natural History, Division of Anthropology, 16.1/128.

"Humanoid Mask"

Charles Edenshaw, "Humanoid Mask," 1902, wood, pigment, hair and string.

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Museum of Anthropology, UBC, Nb1.489. Photo: Trevor Mills, Vancouver Art Gallery.

"Eagle Hat"

Charles Edenshaw, "Eagle Hat," circa 1890, spruce root and paint.

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McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Purchase 1974, 1981.108.1 Photo: Trevor Mills, Vancouver Art Gallery.

"Sea Bear Bracelet"

Charles Edenshaw, "Sea Bear Bracelet," late 19th century, silver.

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Museum of Vancouver Collection, AA 1622. Photo: Trevor Mills, Vancouver Art Gallery.

"Model Pole"

Charles Edenshaw, "Model Pole," circa 1885, wood, detail.

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The Vancouver Art Gallery has organized the first major survey of work by Haida artist Charles Edenshaw, an important figure in the history of Northwest Coast art. Edenshaw, who lived from 1829 to 1920, carved wood, silver and argillite, combining traditional designs with his own innovations. The exhibition features some 200 pieces assembled from various collections around the world and is organized around five central themes. For instance, a section about Haida traditions features objects used in family life, while the narrative section illustrates how Edenshaw incorporated traditional stories into objects such as argillite platters. Another section shows how he used materials and ideas brought by Europeans. “Edenshaw left a legacy through his work and we are blessed that he committed his whole life to creating art for us to enjoy and study,” says Haida artist Robert Davidson. “The magic of Edenshaw’s work embodies millennia of development of Haida art. One can relearn the magic and integrity of the history of the art form by studying his work.”

To February 2, 2014 at the Vancouver Art Gallery.