February 25, 2010 | 2010 Olympics >
Vancouver, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Performing dances passed down through generations in ceremonial potlatches, these Le-La-La dancers are from North Vancouver Island. The lobby of the Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver had been transformed into the Kla-how-ya (meaning "Welcome") Aboriginal Village for the 2010 Olympics. As well as these fantastic shows, I got to see a beautifully carved Ravensong canoe by artist Bill Helin, drums, moccasins and baby baskets crafted by the Tsilqoti'n Aboriginal band in BC.
February 19, 2010 | 2010 Olympics >
Vancouver, Historic & Heritage Sites
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“It’s a bit dangerous when black fella’s got technology,” chuckled Tjupurru. A descendant of the Djabera Djabera tribe of West Australia, Tjupurru brings ancient Aboriginal culture bang up to date into the 21st Century with his mind-blowing Didjeribone playing.
He was without a doubt, the highlight of the Globespotting show at the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion, Vancouver, where we were all celebrating International Indigenous Day. This Aussie, with a sense of humour as big as the tent we sat in, showed us how Aboriginals of all races are real people with contemporary culture, not just old ways confined to museums.
Soon we were all up rocking out to Tjupurru’s ‘Didgitronica’ – bringing me right back to my clubbing days. His unique ‘Didgibone’ works like a cross between a didgeridoo and a trombone, and along with his ‘Face Bass’ (a seismic mouth sensor ), Tjupurru is a one-man band (plus his two talented young sons), creating live samples and soundscapes that transported us straight to the Outback in Oz.
Also at Globespotting, we were treated to hip-hop/alt rock diva Kinnie Starr (of Mohawk heritage). With her raw, punchy vocal-style, she channelled Amy Winehouse, backed superbly by the fiery Borealis Quartet from Vancouver. Coloured lights played across the ceiling of our domed tent, creating an ethereal beauty.
Closing the night was the dreamlike, spiritual Adjagas from North Norway. In ornate fringed and beaded costume, they sang yoiks – unique reflections of people and places that come from the Sami tribe.
February 17, 2010 | 2010 Olympics >
Vancouver, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Greeted by a Haida Gwaii resident in full Aboriginal dress, I stepped through a wooden entrance built like a traditional longhouse. To my left stood a giant carving of a raven, while a totem pole filled other side and a beautiful mask hung above. Welcome to the mystical, legendary world of Haida Gwaii or 'Islands of the People'.
Located on a series of islands at the most westerly point of Canada, and formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, Haida Gwaii is a haven for wildlife watchers, adventurers and those interested in Aboriginal culture. I’ve always wanted to go, and got the lowdown on transport, accommodation and touring options from the helpful ambassadors and several videos playing.
I could get there by small charter plane or BC Ferry, plan to stay in a B&B and book onto a cultural tour. One thing I’d love to see is the Loo Tass canoe (built by Haida artist Bill Reid). On view at the Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay – it was used to bring the Olympic Torch to Haida Gwaii.
February 13, 2010 | 2010 Olympics >
Vancouver, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Curious about the Vancouver Winter Olympics’ Four Host First Nations - the Lil’wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh – I headed over to the Aboriginal Artistans Village. It’s housed in the Vancouver Community College near the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion and the unmistakable architectural landmark that is the Vancouver Library.
Big smiles and warm welcomes ushered in the crowds and I spent a good hour absorbed in beautiful hand-made Aboriginal crafts. Cedar wood carvings of eagles and Orca whales jostled for space beside intricate basket-ware, beaded mittens, and hand-spun grey, cream and black Cowichan sweaters. Presiding over huge glass carvings of salmon runs was Jody Broomfield. He explained how his Coast Salish motifs were chosen to adorn Olympic lanyards, gift boxes at the Opening Ceremony and even an Olympic-themed coin. “I was so proud sitting up in BC Place last night, seeing my designs everywhere,” he said.
Opposite his stall was Corrine Hunt and her exquisite jewelry (pictured). A member of the Raven Gwa’wina clan from Ts’akis, a village on Vancouver Island, Corrine was chosen to design the Olympic medals – and is hugely excited to see them being presented in the first awards ceremony. “Look out for my Orca whales on the Olympic Games medals, and ravens on the Paralympics.”