Drum out a new tune in the arts

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The multiple facets and meanings of drums in the First Nations culture was in the spotlight in the "Drums of Identity" exhibition at the First Nations Creations Gallery in Vancouver, starting with an opening reception on Dec. 7.

"Drums are such a big part of the First Nations art and culture," said organizer Amber-Dawn Bear Robe.

"It's a strong symbol and represents our traditional roots."

The pieces to be displayed at Drums of Identity will be a mixture of the traditional and the contemporary, the old and the new, the daring and the demure. An impressive list of established and emerging Aboriginal artists have each created individual pieces of art-everything from paintings to sculpture to traditional drums-that expresses what the drum means to them.

Artists showcased include Kevin McKenzie, Peter Morin, Garry Todd, Richard Shorty, Leonard Beam, Janice Toulouse Shingwaak, Jerry Whitehead and George Littlechild.

"Some of them will be pure art pieces; others will also have a functional purpose," said Bear Robe. "Since the drum is something most people can relate to, we want the exhibition to bring traditional First Nations art into the present day."

Drums of Identity is the second exhibition presented by the First Nations Creations Cooperative. With a strong commitment to represent and promote authentic Aboriginal art, the cooperative provides artists a non-commercial venue to workshop and display their work.

Bear Robe said the gallery is an important step towards cultural autonomy for all Native artists.

"It also allows a freedom of expression and experimentation not found in the commercial Aboriginal art market in Vancouver," she added.

The exhibition will also feature an exquisite collection of silver jewelry with an Aboriginal flare. Drums of Identity will run until Feb. 1 at the First Nations Art Cooperative, 20 Water Street, Vancouver.

For more information call 604-602-9464.