Distinguished Haida artist experiments with new exhibit

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One of Canada's most respected artists is displaying some of his Haida art at a new exhibit that opened June 22 at the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia.

Robert Davidson works in many different media including painting, carving, sculpting and jewelry. The 57-year-old Davidson said that he is always experimenting; trying new things in the work that he does.

"I'm expanding my own understanding of Haida art. I feel, though the images are new for me, my challenge to myself is to expand and go beyond what I already have done in my past," said Davidson. "I'm in a certain point in my career, I think about five, six years ago, and over the years I look at my work and I felt I was recycling recycled ideas, so I challenged myself to work beyond that."

A graduate of the Vancouver School of Art, Davidson takes his knowledge of his culture and art and puts his own personal touches into the art that he creates.

"I don't have a favourite medium, every medium has its own message," said Davidson. "Once it's out there-it's like having children-once they leave their nest they take on their own life."

Regarded as one of Canada's greatest artists, Davidson's work can be found in many collections around the world including those of the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of Civilization.

Davidson also has received many honourary degrees from institutions across North America. In 1996 he received the Order of Canada. But Davidson feels that being called one of Canada's greatest artists is a little scary.

"I see myself as a little more wanting to expand on my own vocabulary of the art form. Whether it brings me into that area (of great artists) or not, I think time will tell," said Davidson. "It's not really up to me to say that. I guess the works will speak for themselves."

Davidson's exhibit at the Museum of Anthropology will run from June 22 until Jan. 30, 2005. A tour is also being planned before the exhibit ends up at the National Gallery of Canada early in 2007.

"We're really excited about it. Robert has had a long relationship with this museum since he was a young artist," said Karren Duffek, curator of art at the Museum of Anthropology. "There seems to be a lot of excitement about it because Robert Davidson is recognized as being quite a leader in Haida art, specifically, and Northwest Coast art."

This new show is also somewhat of a transformation for Davidson. He said it doesn't incorporate too many traditional Haida pieces.

"I feel excited and I also feel a little apprehensive. The works that will be presented go beyond. There will be four ceremonial pieces-that will be four drums-but that's it. It will not include masks or jewelry, the things that are well known within the Haida style," said Davidson. "I'm exploring new territory for me, but is it new territory? That's what goes through my mind-is it new?"