The Squamish Public Library has installed new artwork on its windows by Squamish Nation artist and designer Siobhan Joseph.
The original artwork depicts the Squamish legend “Why the Salmon Come to Squamish Waters,” and can now be seen as a large-scale window wrap on the library buildings front windows along Second Avenue, and the North-facing windows towards Municipal Hall.
Siobhan Joseph was the successful artist in the library’s public Call for Artists in the fall of 2020.
Joseph, who is currently attending Emily Carr University of Art + Design, says, “I am a member of the Squamish Nation, and the daughter of master carver Delmar Joseph Sr.
“I grew up with many talented artists and carvers within my family such as my uncles and aunts. I started drawing at a young age after watching my dad create and carve. I like to add natural realism to my modern designs,” he said.
The library was the recipient of a Squamish Arts Council Community Enhancement Grant in 2020 that funded the artwork.
The project supports one of the library’s key strategies to “Engage and Welcome Everyone,” which includes fostering a connection with the Squamish Nation.
This public-facing art installation supports the work started on the reconciliation process and acknowledges the Indigenous history and stewardship that that land on which the library building is located.
The window art, which is a translucent vinyl window wrap, is visible both from inside and outside of the library building.
The library invites the community to stop by for a visit to see the artwork that wraps around the building’s windows.
“You can learn the whole legend and see the complete illustrated story book with many more illustrations by Siobhan Joseph in the Library,” the library said.
