Spirits of the West Coast Art Gallery is honoured to present I’TUSTO Rising Again, featuring a wide selection of Northwest Coast Art by internationally renowned artist Calvin Hunt. Offering works that reflect the power of contemporary Kwakwaka’wakw art, ceremony, identity, and spirituality, this inspiring exhibition opens virtually September 5th, 2020 with songs and dances by Calvin’s dance group, the Copper Maker Dancers. The exhibition and sale is also open to the public—following current pandemic response protocols—at 2926 Back Road, Courtenay, BC.
From dramatic transformation masks and dance regalia to totem poles and prints, I’TUSTO brings fresh insights to Calvin Hunt’s life-long commitment to the continuity and diversity of his cultural heritage. Descended from distinguished Kwagu’ł, Tlingit, and Mowachaht families, his Kwagu’ł name is Chief Tłasutiwalis and his Mowachaht name is Hereditary Chief Nas’a̱m’yus.
With a special invitation from Calvin Hunt, Karver Everson is included in the I’TUSTO exhibition. Reflecting the cultural traditions of both his K’ómoks and Kwagu’ł ancestors, Karver has created 6 dance masks to hang alongside Hunt’s in an exceptional pairing of master and mentee.
I’TUSTO Rising Again will be presented in an innovative virtual format including the live-streamed opening celebration on Facebook at 1 p.m. PST on Saturday, September 5th, 2020. The exhibition and sale is also open to the public—following current pandemic response protocols—at 2926 Back Road, Courtenay, BC. Visit our website at www.spiritsofthewestcoast.com and follow us on Facebook @spiritsofthewestcoast, Instagram @spiritsofthewestcoast and Twitter @spiritsgallery for the latest news, artist talks, and exhibition features.