Tens of Thousands of Years of Intergenerational Knowledge 

Photo: Book Cover, Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese

June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. 

It is a month to reflect on Indigenous world views, epistemologies, educational and governance systems, and the impacts they have on economic reconciliation.

Take time to learn about the vast intergenerational knowledge Indigenous peoples have accumulated. Consider that this knowledge is imbedded with over tens of thousands of years of learning the landscapes, water ways, flora and fauna, and imagine how this accumulation of knowledge can spark innovation and creativity in your own world view. 

The best way to do that is to listen to First Nations, Inuit and Métis through their own voices, by reading a book, watching a film or video, or listening to music created by Indigenous people. 

 Here are some resources for a month of learning: 

1. Unbroken  by Angela Sterritt 
3. Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese 
4. Potlatch as Pedagogy  by Sarah Florence Davidson & Robert Davidson 
5.When We Were Alone by David Roberston 
6. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. by Bob Joseph

Here are a few ways to be involved: 

  1. Educate yourself on the history of the land where you live, work and play. 
  2. Learn what it means to be an accomplice and participate in allyship from an Indigenous lens. 
  3. Engage with Indigenous businesses and their economies to support growth. 

      Here is a call to action from Indigenous Tourism BC

      This National Indigenous History Month, we call upon all Canadians to actively seek firsthand experiences, educate themselves about living Indigenous cultures, and find ways to contribute to the wellness of Indigenous families, lands, and communities in BC – not just in June, but throughout the year. 

      BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change. 

      The Creative Journey: Insights from program alumnus John Fluevog 

      Photo: John Fluevog, BC Achievement program alumnus

      Recently, we had the privilege of interviewing John Fluevog, renowned shoe designer and Award of Distinction recipient of the 2008 Creative Art Award, now known as the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design. This conversation was a highlight as we gear up the call for nominations for the award program and launch its new name in honour of the late Sam Carter

      John revealed some insights by sharing his story as a successful artist while providing advice for aspiring creatives.  

      The impact of the award 

      John reflected on receiving the Applied Art + Design in 2008 sharing that, “I felt honoured that we collectively recognize how important the arts are in our community”. 

      John continues to support efforts that inspire participation in the creative economy, believing it is a great idea to honour artists through the award program. 

      Standing the test of time 

      As a Vancouver resident, who lives part time on the Sunshine Coast, John acknowledges that his artistic practice is influenced by his home. “Vancouver is a wide-open field to do what one wants to do. You don’t have to fit a certain mold to make yourself known like you might have to in cities like London or New York. I guess you could say I’m a big fish in a small pond.” This environment allowed him the freedom to innovate without the pressures that come with larger, more competitive markets. “Vancouver provides a supportive community that has fuelled my business,” he shares. This intrinsic drive, combined with external support, has been key to his longevity and success. 

      Discovering Creativity 

      Interestingly, John’s journey into the creative world was one of self-discovery and he offers the following advice: “I didn’t think I was creative. My story is about finding out that I am. My message to others is that they are far more creative than they think they are. Their uniqueness is a gift. We all need to embrace our creativity because it is the gel that holds our society together.”  

      The Role of Arts in Society 

      John believes passionately in the transformative power of the arts that ensure communities thrive. “Creative people shape the heart and soul of a community. While others build and manage, it’s the creative individuals who bring vibrancy and cohesion. That’s why I’m thrilled that BC Achievement recognizes this through programs that encourage people to excel creatively. This recognition is crucial, especially in a society often driven by metrics and tangible outputs,” he says. 

      John hopes to see more community engagement among artists, underlining that “Artists are seers; they can envision things differently. We need to work together and have an influence on policies and city planning. The arts are crucial for the heart and soul of our communities.”  

      He also sees a role for the arts in supporting the individuals living on the streets in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. “On the street I see people carving, I see people drawing little things, and they may be in a stupor that is seriously dictated by mental health issues, yet they’re doing creative things in their own way,” he says. “Wouldn’t it be nice if we could harness that somehow and give them a sense of purpose. We all need a sense of purpose.” 

      Applied Art + Design as a Career Choice 

      When asked about the future of the creative field and advice for those contemplating a career in the creative arts rather than a more traditional path like finance, John offers a nuanced perspective. “Everything is creative. You can be creative in finance just as much as in traditional arts. Our daily lives are stories, and that’s our art. We are all a personal brand, and how we interact with the world is a form of creativity.” 

      Staying Inspired and Creative 

      What keeps John going is his commitment to creativity and the relentless pursuit of that challenge keeps him grounded and fulfilled. “Creating is my happy place. If I’m not making something, I wonder what I’m doing here. I try to make it a daily practice.”  

      Forever the creative mind, in his spare time, John enjoys building and customizing vintage boats and cars. “It’s like returning to childhood. I used to love playing with cars and digging in the dirt. Now, at 76, I’m still doing that, and it’s wonderful.”  

      John’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of supporting the arts. His advice to aspiring creatives is clear: embrace your uniqueness, stay true to your creative impulses, and remember that creativity exists in all aspects of life. 

      The inaugural Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design program celebrated its 20th anniversary launch at the John Fluevog Shoe store in Vancouver on May 30, saluting the creative economy and all those who work within it. Thank you to John Fluevog and staff for hosting BC Achievement, supporting applied artists and designers and continuing the enduring legacy of the late Sam Carter. 

      Nominations for this year’s award will be accepted through BCAF’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18 – 24 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in downtown Vancouver. 

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation and its award programs, visit www.bcachievement.com.  

      BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

      Apply now for BC Achievement’s art award programs – open until June 30

      BC Achievement’s art award programs empower extraordinary individuals by providing deserved recognition and elevation from their peers and communities. 

      It is a celebration of the province’s growing and critical creative economy. Nominate now and help shine the light on excellence in BC! 

       Offered year round until June 30, nominations for artists are being accepted for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art and the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design programs. 

      Applying for an award serves as a platform to communicate an artist’s work, vision and creativity. The process invites an opportunity for critical artistic reflection while exposing artists and designers to a wider audience. Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. Recipients receive a cash prize and a film outlining their artistic journey, they participate in an exhibition showcasing their art, and their story is celebrated through province-wide recognition channels. There are so many reasons to nominate! 

      The Polygon Award in First Nations Art, now in its 18th year, recognizes BC First Nations artists for excellence in traditional, contemporary or media art and includes those who have demonstrated a commitment to their art practice; have accumulated a body of work; and who are recognized in their communities as artists. Up to four artists will be selected to receive the award in different categories. 

      Nominations are invited from throughout the province from BC First Nations artists who practice traditional or contemporary visual art in fields such as, but not limited to, carving, photography, beading, weaving, jewellery, painting, masks, sculpture, stonework, printmaking, basketry, textiles, and media art. 

      “All those who have received these awards…to see me there, is really quite an honour. It’s really important to tell our story because that’s who we are – we are storytellers.”  2023 Award Recipient, Klatle-bhi 

      The second art program with a deadline of June 30 is the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design which, since 2004, has been celebrating British Columbians who excel in creating functional art. The program recognizes artists who work in mediums such as furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, weaving, glass, fashion, to industrial design. Up to four artists will be selected to receive the award. 

      “I’ve always been making, ever since I was a child. That’s what got me through so many things in life…was making.”  2023 Awardee, Bridget Catchpole 

      Nominations for this year’s art awards will be accepted through BC Achievement’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18 – 24 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in downtown Vancouver. 

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation and its award programs, visit www.bcachievement.com.  

      #nominatenowbc 

      BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.

      Nominations open for the 18th annual Polygon Award in First Nations Art

      Vancouver, BC (June 3, 2024): The BC Achievement Foundation has launched its 2024 Call for Nominations for the Polygon Award in First Nations Art.

      The 18th annual Polygon Award in First Nations Art (FNA) program recognizes BC First Nations artists for excellence in traditional, contemporary or media art. The Award is designed for artists from BC First Nations who have demonstrated a commitment to their art practice; have accumulated a body of work; and who are recognized in their communities as artists.

      “The Polygon Award in First Nations Art recognizes the incredible talent within our First Nations communities and honours artistry and culture. Celebrating the achievements of First Nations artists inspires future generations and enriches our collective cultural landscape,” said Walter Pela, Chair of the BC Achievement Foundation, “I encourage everyone to nominate outstanding artists, ensuring that their work can be acknowledged and celebrated widely.”

      Nominations are invited from throughout the province from BC First Nations artists who practice traditional or contemporary visual art in fields such as, but not limited to, carving, photography, beading, weaving, jewellery, painting, masks, sculpture, stonework, printmaking, basketry, textiles, and media art.

      “Receiving the Polygon Award in First Nations Art is important to me because it has allowed me to pause and look back at all the things I have created in my career as an artist; how much I have grown since the beginning. As an artist, you never really take the time to reflect, because you are always on the next project. It has been such an honour to receive the award and I am grateful for this opportunity,”
      said Shawna Kiesman, 2023 FNA Award recipient.

      The 2024 Polygon Award in First Nations Art marks the 18th year of the program, which stands on the excellence of 99 recipients and the philanthropic community that supports BCAF’s programming. The foundation is grateful to Polygon Homes Ltd. for its ongoing commitment and partnership to uplift and celebrate excellence in First Nations Art in the province.

      The FNA program is presented by BC Achievement and its sponsors and partners: Supporting Sponsors –TELUS, TD; Community Partners – BC Ferries, Denbigh, The Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre; and Media Sponsors – CFNR, Frog Radio, Global BC, Miss 604, and Stir Magazine are all gratefully acknowledged. 

      Nominations for this year’s award will be accepted through BC Achievement’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18-24 at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in Vancouver.

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation or the First Nations Art Award program, visit www.bcachievement.com.

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      About BC Achievement

      BC Achievement is an independent foundation established in 2003 that celebrates the spirit of excellence in our province and serves to honour the best of British Columbia. By recognizing the accomplishments of our province’s entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, youth and volunteers, its award programs pay tribute to exceptional people, doing exceptional work, while carving a path forward for others to follow. www.bcachievement.com

      Media Contacts

      Gemma Bishop
      Gather Public Relations
      T: 604-375-6953
      E: gemma@gatherpublicrelations.com

      Rup Grewal, Communications Director
      BC Achievement Foundation
      T: 604-261-9777 (Ext 102)
      E: rup@bcachievement.com

      BC Achievement announces the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design

      Vancouver, BC (June 3, 2024): Today the BC Achievement Foundation announced that the Applied Art + Design Award (AAD) will be named the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design. The naming honours the visionary founder of the program, the late Sam Carter, saluting his remarkable legacy on the 20th anniversary of the program’s offering.

      As an artist, educator and curator, Sam championed Canadian designers, craftspeople and applied artists. He personally curated the AAD program’s annual exhibits and guided the program with unflagging passion and dedication. Sam was a true friend and advisor to the provincial, national and global applied art and design community.

      “Sam Carter’s dedication to fostering creativity and excellence in the field of applied art and design has left a lasting mark on the creative community,” said Walter Pela. “It is an incredible privilege to name the award in Sam’s honour and recognize his contributions to British Columbia. I encourage all designers and artists to apply for the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design. Nominations are open and we look forward to celebrating the next generation of visionary talent.”

      The Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design (AAD) program celebrates British Columbians who excel in creating functional art. The program recognizes artists who work in mediums such as furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, weaving, glass, fashion and industrial design.

      Applying for an award serves as a platform to communicate an artist’s work, vision and contribution to the creative economy. The process invites an opportunity for artistic reflection and exposes artists and designers to a wider audience. The program welcomes submissions from those who produce work that has a practical or functional application. Nominations and self-nominations from throughout the province are accepted until June 30, 2024.

      “It really does mean a lot to folks like me to be acknowledged for the difficult path we’ve carved out for ourselves in the arts. Thanks for the work you are doing to help spread the word that BC has talent right here at home,” said Riley McFerrin, 2023 AAD recipient.

      Nominations for this year’s award will be accepted through BC Achievement’s website until June 30. Recipients will be announced in October, with an exhibit of their selected works taking place November 18-24 at The Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre in Vancouver.

      Marking its 20th anniversary this year, the AAD program stands on the excellence of its 87 alumni and is supported by a growing and generous philanthropic community keen to ensure that Sam’s legacy lives on. BC Achievement is grateful to its donors who stepped up to support the launch of the Sam Carter Award and remains indebted to the Yosef Wosk Family Foundation, whose generosity contributed to over a decade of celebrating applied art + design in British Columbia.

      The AAD program is presented by BC Achievement and its sponsors and partners: Supporting Sponsor –TELUS; Community Partnerss – BC Ferries, Denbigh, The Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre; and Media Sponsors – Global BC, Miss 604, and Stir Magazine are all gratefully acknowledged. 

      For more information about the BC Achievement Foundation or the Sam Carter Award in Applied Art + Design program, visit www.bcachievement.com.

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      About BC Achievement

      BC Achievement is an independent foundation established in 2003 that celebrates the spirit of excellence in our province and serves to honour the best of British Columbia. By recognizing the accomplishments of our province’s entrepreneurs, artists, community leaders, youth and volunteers, its award programs pay tribute to exceptional people, doing exceptional work, while carving a path forward for others to follow. www.bcachievement.com

      Media Contacts

      Gemma Bishop
      Gather Public Relations
      T: 604-375-6953
      E: gemma@gatherpublicrelations.com

      Rup Grewal, Communications Director
      BC Achievement Foundation
      T: 604-261-9777 (Ext 102)
      E: rup@bcachievement.com