BC Ferries is partnering with the First Peoples Cultural Council to commission original Coast Salish artwork on the exterior and interior of its newest vessel, Salish Heron. The ship will sail in the Southern Gulf Islands starting in 2022. Its sister ships, Salish Orca, Salish Eagle, and Salish Raven, commenced service in 2017, sailing between Comox and Powell River, as well as the Southern Gulf Islands.

“The artistic designs displayed on the vessels honour rich and diverse Indigenous cultures and art forms in British Columbia. This project is important to our efforts towards reconciliation, and it has pride of place among staff, artists, and travellers alike. I encourage all Coast Salish artists to make a submission,” said Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.

Coast Salish artists are invited to submit their portfolios and expressions of interest by May 21, 2021.

Please read the full press release.

Photo is of Salish Orca with artwork designed by Darlene Gait from Esquimalt Nation.