West Vancouver, B.C.— Reflecting on the transformative exhibition that graced West Vancouver Memorial Library from January 26 to March 10, we still see the impact and introspection on our local West Vancouver community.
What set this exhibition apart from others
At the Library, we strive to be a community hub where diverse narratives converge, history is actively explored, and stories catalyze deeper understanding.
Bringing the Witness Blanket to the Library was more than just showcasing a piece of art. Bringing the Blanket to West Vancouver required a dedicated team of 15 staff members, tirelessly navigating the intricacies of planning, installation, and community engagement. From thought-provoking author talks to captivating concerts, every one of the seven events was meticulously curated to ignite reflection and foster meaningful dialogue among our patrons.
Since the piece began touring in 2015, this was the first time people on the North Shore had the rare opportunity to see it up close and confront its tragic subject matter firsthand.
This exhibition drew an impressive 52,367 visits, a 12% increase over the previous year, and became a cornerstone of communal dialogue and understanding. We were pleased to welcome over 500 people to our different events and an estimated 200 students who viewed the YouTube program with the artist Carey Newman.
A Call to Amplify Voices Through Art
Each intricate piece of the Blanket told compelling stories, weaving together different cultures, language nuances, and the tragic legacy of Residential Schools into an art piece that forced our patrons to confront Canada’s legacy of colonialism. As Carey Newman, the visionary behind Witness Blanket, aptly remarked, “Blankets embody universal symbols of comfort and care,” underscoring the exhibition’s deep-rooted significance. We also worked with the Squamish Nation’s Elders Centre and Capilano Little Ones School (Xwemélch’stn Etsimxwawtxw) to offer private viewings to 45 elders and ten children.
Echoes of Personal Impact
Among the myriad of positive comments from patrons, one visitor encapsulated the sentiments of many, remarking, “These personal experiences underscore the exhibition’s ability to evoke emotions, foster empathy, and deepen understanding.”
The Province of British Columbia, through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and the Library’s Foundation, funded this exhibition. CJNY–The Journey’s support as the media sponsor amplified the exhibit’s reach.
We believe that the Witness Blanket left an indelible mark on all 52,367 who had the privilege of experiencing its transformative narrative over the six weeks it was in West Vancouver.