Indigenous art exhibit at Banner Bank

||| FROM MICHELLE HASSEBROCK for ORCAS ISLAND MUSEUMS |||

This November, we honor Indigenous Peoples Month with a special exhibition of contemporary works from the Orcas Island Historical Museum archives.

“It’s not only about money—it’s about community, past and present, and working with the Museum gives us a special opportunity to share this scope,” Laura Doss, Client Relationship Consultant at Eastsound’s Banner Bank.

Customers agree that a highlight of entering Banner Bank is the ever-changing exhibit of work by Island artists. However, this Indigenous People’s Month, the bank has joined the Museum in hosting a special exhibit of some of the fine art created by contemporary Indigenous artists, largely focusing on the greater Pacific Northwest.

Every piece tells a story. The exhibit includes a selection of carved cedar masks, silk screen prints from different heritage communities, and Inuit carvings that illustrate the dynamic importance of storytelling in traditional communities throughout the world.

“All the works are from the Museum’s collections,” explained the Museum’s Executive Director, Nancy Stillger. “We just don’t have room to display everything on the Museum premises.”  

All pieces on display were donated by supporters of the Museums. The works may be seen during banking hours, Monday through Friday. Due to the exhibit’s popularity, Banner Bank has generously agreed to extend the duration of the exhibit for a short time. If you haven’t seen it yet, now is the time!

Any questions or comments regarding the present exhibit may be directed to Antoinette Botsford, Museum Board Member and Volunteer Assistant Curator. Contact the Orcas Island Historical Museum office at 360-376-4849.