“NO CHILDREN WILL BE FORGOTTEN”
Indigenous artist D’Arcy Basil to carve first of its kind 2,500 lb Jade monument to honour the children that perished at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, and the survivors who attended.
“No Children Will Be Forgotten” is a weekend-long fundraiser, exhibit, and art show hosted by Indigenous artist D’Arcy Basil and CMHC-Granville Island, September 25 & 26, 2021.
Funds raised will be used to create and place a Kamloops Residential School Children’s Monument, carved from a 2,500 lb piece of raw jade, as well as towards the creation of an Indigenous Artists Carving Program, teaching the traditional methods of carving wood, stone, bone, antler and jade.
The weekend art exhibit, with silent auctions on both days, will be held from 10 am to 6 pm in the new “Hives for Humanity” parklet, in front of co-host, i.e. Creative Art Works at 1244 Cartwright Street, Granville Island.
The uniquely large piece of Jade was donated by Tony Ritter, co-owner of Cassiar Jade Contracting in Watson Lake, YT. After initially hearing the news of the 215 unmarked graves in Kamloops, Mr. Ritter considered what he could do to support the community and reached out to artist D’Arcy Basil to ask if he would be interested in the Jade.
“As soon as I heard from Tony Ritter, I felt the need to create a memorial monument to honour and remember the Indigenous children that survived and those who died”…”I hope this can help contribute to some healing. My father went to that same school so I am aware of this horrible dark legacy and know the negative impact the Residential School has had on many generations.” D’Arcy Basil – Secwepemc artist
“I feel the jade is the perfect material to create an important piece. It’s strong, resilient and beautiful, all qualities that reflect the Indigenous people this monument will represent. I am honoured to be able to share it with the Indigenous community, and humbled D’Arcy Basil has agreed to carve the stone.” Tony Ritter
“This fundraising event is a way for Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals to learn more about the history of residential schools, the impact they have had on Indigenous people, and for all those who have wanted to do “something”, the opportunity to contribute to the fundraising efforts to complete the Kamloops Residential School Children’s Monument.” D’Arcy Basil
Since this idea was first presented, the Granville Island community stepped in to support the event. With guidance from i.e. Creative’s Cheryl Hamilton; artisans, non-profits, businesses, staff and management from across Granville Island came forward with donations of materials, labour, expertise, space and the planning required to make this happen, reflecting the relationships that truly makes Granville Island a community. Currently there are an additional two First Nations carvers on Granville Island, in space donated by CMHC.
“In regards to the carving school project”, said D’Arcy Basil, “The Maori TePuia National Wood Carving School is very inspirational – I would love to see a similar style of traditional knowledge mentoring here in British Columbia to help keep our traditional art forms strong and vibrant. I hope we can contribute with the start of a carving program, and this event is a step in that direction.” D’Arcy Basil – Secwepemc artist
Schedule of Events September 25 & 26 (event repeats Sept 26)
10:00 AM
Opening prayers, blessing, and traditional territory acknowledgement by Elders Shane Point (Musqueam), and Kelly White (Snuneymuxw).
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Exhibits and art show from prominent local carvers and artists featuring wood masks, panels, prints, and other sculptures.
Information hub by the Kamloops Indian Band Cultural department and members involving history, culture, and developments from the findings of the 215 unmarked graves at the former site of the Kamloops Indian Residential School.
Information and art displays by the artist D’Arcy Basil
Live totem pole carving demonstrations by Master Carver Chris Sparrow
Artwork display of monumental cedar artwork by Master Carver Clarence Mills
Limited edition silk screen print featuring ‘owl moon’ by artist, D’Arcy Basil, will be available for purchase along with digital prints by donation.
Silent auctions are unique to each day, both ending at 5:45 pm. All winners not in attendance will be contacted by phone on each day.
All donation activity and financial administration courtesy of The Indian Residential School Survivors Society, a non-profit Indigenous Organization who will also provide information at the event.
About D’Arcy Basil
D’Arcy Basil is a Secwepemc / Coast Salish (adopted) artist living on the unceded Musqueam traditional territory. He has a background in sculpting, stone carving and wood carving, His carvings and sculptures in wood, stone, and metal have been collected both locally and internationally.
Mr. Basil attended the digital graphic design / 3D animation programs at Capilano University and BCIT and apprenticed with Master Carver Chris Sparrow (Musqueam). Turning his focus to jade carving, he continues to prioritise mentorship, building relationships, and working in collaboration with many other artists throughout BC, Canada and internationally.
Granville Island is located on the Traditional Territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), kwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations.
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