June 26 – August 16, 2026

LARGE GALLERY

wa shew̓áy̓ ta x̱wítl’em

“Growing Strings / Fibres”

wa shew̓áy̓ ta x̱wítl’em is the name of a new growing space in Gibsons that brings together Indigenous plants traditionally used for weaving, cordage, dye, and textile practices while supporting the restoration of the pond ecosystem and surrounding habitat. This garden is a living space of cultural revitalization, ecological care, and intergenerational knowledge sharing rooted in Sḵwx̱wú7mesh teachings.  

Alongside the launch of this space, this exhibition shares the work of artists whose work expresses this interconnectedness. Some are artists who have led the creation of wa shew̓áy̓ ta x̱wítl’em, including Cease Wyss, Jaz Whitford and Megan Dewar. Their work shares the central ethos of the garden – to be in community as a verb – to commune, meaning-make and story-bear as a collective act of decolonial joy.  

Shíshálh master weaver Jessica Silvey’s work is a reminder of the remarkable craftsmanship, cultural continuity and deep relation to land that is central. From harvesting cedar from the surrounding mountains, to gathering the dye and medicine plants, Silvey’s work expresses her intimate and profound relationship and knowledge of the plant-kin that shape this place.  

Senaqwila Wyss generously shares stories that are foundational to this exhibition and the garden. They include stinging nettle, cedar, the Coast Salish Woolly Dog and the wetland and forest plants that provide important materials for both weaving and natural dyes. From cattails, reeds, and other water-loving plants that can be woven into mats and baskets, to roots, bark, berries, and lichens that create rich natural colours for wool and fibre.