Surrey Libraries hosts Taan’s Moons: a Haida Moon Story Art Exhibit & Celebration at City Centre Library in celebration of Canadian Children’s Book Week, May 8-12th.
“We are really excited to showcase original felted art from the picturebook, Taan’s Moons, a beautiful story that is woven together by the community on Haida Gwaii and is the result of an amazing collaboration of children, Elders, community leaders, local artist and educators,” explains Sara Grant, Manager of Youth Services at Surrey Libraries.
Taan’s Moons, written by Alison Gear and illustrated by Kiki van der Heiden, follows a year in the life of Taan, which means “bear” in the Haida language. Award-winning author Richard Van Camp describes Taan’s Moons as one of the most beautiful books he has ever witnessed. The art exhibit will feature 13 large felted moons, with the accompanying story honouring traditional language, as each moon is translated into Skidegate Haida and Old Massett Haida.
The week-long exhibit will begin with an Opening Celebration on Monday, May 8, from 9:30-10:30 am, featuring remarks from local First Nations leaders, Haida music, and light refreshments. During the week there will be programs for kids, school tours, and a Community Conversation.
On Tuesday, May 9, 3:30–5 pm, children ages 6-12 can meet Taan’s Moons author Alison Gear, and create their own felted art with Taan’s Moons’ illustrator, Kiki van der Heiden.
On Thursday, May 11, 6:30-8:30 pm, adults and teens can be part of the Community Conversation about art and cultural expression. There will be a panel of speakers, including local Indigenous artists and Taan’s Moons’ artist and illustrator. Participants can take part in an art activity led by the illustrator.
All week long, 28 select classes from Surrey Schools will be touring the art exhibit, meeting the author, making art with the illustrator, and hearing from First Nations community about the cultural significance of the lunar calendar to Indigenous communities. Classes are being registered through Surrey Schools.
Register at 604-598-7426.