The Elegant Implement

The Inuit Gallery of Vancouver would like to invite you to explore a new exhibition of works from some of the finest artists on the Northwest coast. The Elegant Implement focuses on contemporary and traditional objects that are or were practical in an everyday setting, ranging from tools to vessels to fine furniture.

What we think of today as good industrial design was applied to objects and implements on the Northwest coast for generations past and continues to this day. In Northwest Coast design, however, unlike most European industrial design, the artist is not only concerned with the smooth co-operation between form and function, but must be aware of the added element of meaning. Many objects created for everyday use carry symbols that speak of the lineage and status of the owner and so must convey the information accurately and favourably, without compromising the functional integrity of the object.

In some instances, the beauty of the device itself surpasses the seemingly mundane function it was created for, as in the case of Richard Sumner's divine Canoe Bailer or in Susan Point's modern interpretation of the traditional Coast Salish spindle whorl. In others, like Reg Davidson's Raven bowl, or Larry Rosso's Eagle platter, the vessel not only enhances the appeal of the food served in them, but the shapely design and opulent decoration also speak volumes about the high status of the person who owns them.

We hope you will enjoy the exhibition and if you have any questions about the works, please don't hesitate to contact the gallery.

Kate Leach
Inuit Gallery of Vancouver Ltd.
 
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11. Chilkat Design Coffee Table Sold
ei000027 11. Chilkat Design Coffee Table
...
11. Chilkat Design Coffee Table
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11. Chilkat Design Coffee Table

Artist ...

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12. Canoe Bowl Sold
ei000003 12. Canoe Bowl
Tim Paul
12. Canoe Bowl
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12. Canoe Bowl

Artist Tim Paul

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13. Ancestor Potlatch Bag Sold
ei000009 13. Ancestor Potlatch Bag
William White
13. Ancestor Potlatch Bag
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13. Ancestor Potlatch Bag

Artist William White

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14. Shaman Ladle Sold
ei000014 14. Shaman Ladle
Morris Sutherland
14. Shaman Ladle
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14. Shaman Ladle

Artist Morris Sutherland

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15. Thunderbird & Whale Soapberry Spoons Sold
ei000018 15. Thunderbird & Whale Soapberry Spoons
Johnathan Henderson
15. Thunderbird & Whale Soapberry Spoons
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15. Thunderbird & Whale Soapberry Spoons

Artist Johnathan Henderson

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16. Eagle Bowl Sold
ei000024 16. Eagle Bowl
Sam & Junior Henderson
16. Eagle Bowl
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16. Eagle Bowl

Artist Sam & Junior Henderson

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17 & 18. Formline Design Salad Bowl & Salish Basket Pattern Colander Sold
ei000015 17 & 18. Formline Design Salad Bowl & Salish Basket Pattern Colander
Judy Cranmer
17 & 18. Formline Design Salad Bowl & Salish Basket Pattern Colander
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17 & 18. Formline Design Salad Bowl & Salish Basket Pattern Colander

Artist Judy Cranmer

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19. Eagle Comb Sold
ei000004 19. Eagle Comb
David R. Boxley
19. Eagle Comb
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19. Eagle Comb

Artist David R. Boxley

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20. Spirit Cane Sold
ei000019 20. Spirit Cane
Joe David
20. Spirit Cane
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20. Spirit Cane

Artist Joe David

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22. Sea Lion Feast Bowl Sold
ei000016 22. Sea Lion Feast Bowl
Bill Henderson
22. Sea Lion Feast Bowl
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22. Sea Lion Feast Bowl

Artist Bill Henderson

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