A Sts'ailes carver is getting the spotlight at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre next week.
Lek'hoosh Arnie Leon opens The Mystical Eagle Carving Exhibit on Wednesday, March 19, at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre (9201 Courbold St.) at 6:30 p.m. Leon will be joined by Noelani Leon, and the exhibit will feature his wood carvings as well as Noelani's painting and drawings, totalling 45 pieces on display.
The opening reception will feature a talk from Leon and a performance of the Sacred Eagle Dance.
Leon shares his culture through dance, music and art. He has been a carver for 24 years, teaching himself and honing his craft.
"Each carving tells a story, shaped by tradition, spirit, and the natural beauty of the wood itself," Leon stated. "Mystical Eagle carvings exhibition is an invitation to see these stories come to life – honouring the past while speaking to the present. I look forward to sharing this journey with you."
The exhibit features spirit masks, plaques, paddles, ceremonial platters and spiritual representations. Leon's carvings are made of red cedar, yellow cedar, horsehair, operculum shells, cyrkonia bead, copper and abalone shell.
It'll be in the lobby of the centre until Aug. 31.
