On her visit to the North Island with MLA Michele Babchuk, Honourable Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions stopped by the Campbell River Art Gallery to learn about our Art Hive.
The Art Hive program is an open studio program for folks who are unhoused, precariously housed, and have lived experience with substance use. It enables them to access opportunities for art making. We also provide economic opportunities for these artists to sell their work in the gift shop.
“Campbell River is fortunate to have so many people working so hard to alleviate the effects of the toxic drug crisis, and we know it is still not enough, but I want to say thank you to our first responders, primary care providers, and support workers that are working hard to keep people safe,” said MLA Babchuk. “Our government is working hard to support all those affected by this crisis.”
Minister Whiteside was gifted a jar of Devil’s Club Salve, harvested by Art Hive artists, and she purchased a few of the Art Hive’s screen printed T-shirts.
“It was great to show her the impact of this important project, and hear how supportive she is of initiatives that uplift folks so often marginalized from economic opportunities and art making practices,” said Sara Lopez Assu, executive director of the Campbell River Art Gallery.
The current exhibition in our Satellite Gallery features work by Art Hive artists John Albert (Guy) Sharkey, Charles (Chuck) Jules, Jennifer Joseph, and Shawn Decaire. Mu’la means Gratitude in Kwakwala. This state of appreciation fosters a sense of our collective responsibility and shared humanity. Each artist’s work is a manifestation of their gratitude.
The exhibition closes on April 29th, with a ceremonial fire and feast open to the public.
Art made by Art Hive artists is available for purchase in our gallery gift shop.
The gallery and gift shop are open Thursday- Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
