FREDERICTON (GNB) – Aboriginal art commissioned by the New Brunswick Art Bank will be exhibited throughout the province for the first time, starting Wednesday, Nov. 1 in Fredericton.
“Your government values our First Nations heritage and culture,” said Treasury Board President Roger Melanson, who is also the minister responsible for aboriginal affairs. “We are honoured to introduce the artwork of extraordinary First Nation artists living in New Brunswick.”
Earlier this year, the New Brunswick Art Bank issued a call for aboriginal artwork, marking the first such targeted call. Mi’kmaq, Wolastoqey, and Passamaquoddy artists residing in New Brunswick were invited to submit their work for consideration. The Aboriginal Art Exhibition tour begins at Government House in Fredericton on Nov. 1.
“We are proud to have partnered with First Nations artists to share aboriginal culture with all New Brunswickers,” said Melanson. “We congratulate the artists and thank them for their important contribution to New Brunswick’s history and cultural identity. It is truly an honour to have these beautiful works on display.”
The public is invited to view the selected works at Government House until after the New Year’s levee. When not on exhibition, the selected art will be permanently housed with the art bank.
“As the ceremonial home for all New Brunswickers, Government House is the perfect location to showcase this new collection,” said Lt.-Gov. Jocelyne Roy Vienneau. “This exhibit reflects our past and our future, and I am proud it will be available to visitors at my official residence until 2018.”
The New Brunswick Art Bank was established in 1968 as a permanent collection and celebration of the contemporary visual arts in the province.
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