Sto:lo master carver Mark Point this morning (Thursday) led a blessing of the Kwikwetlem First Nations' public art in the new Coquitlam Central station for the Evergreen Extension, set to open on Dec. 2.
As SkyTrain cars flew above, Point sang a travelling drum song before showing dignitaries the canoe he carved for the transit hub as well as other cultural pieces.
"Kwikwetlem First Nation was very delighted to be part of this whole process," he told the crowd. "It has been a tremendous learning experience for the First Nations to sit at the same table with government officials. I think this is a fine example of how we can move forward. This is a part of reconciliation when we are treated as equals."
Vivienne King, head of rail for TransLink, said the public art along the $1.43-billion line will provide a welcoming place as well as serve as a mental break for commuters while Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart said the Evergreen art rivals any he has seen around the world along a rapid transit alignment.
• Check out The Tri-City News on Wednesday for a feature on the Evergreen Extension public art.
