If you haven’t yet visited the Nuxalk Strong exhibition at the Museum of Anthropology (MOA), now is the time. Running until January 2026, this powerful showcase of Nuxalk Nation’s healing, sovereignty, and artistic legacy offers plenty of opportunity to attend more than once, as there is so much to see. As Mina Kerr-Lazenby notes in CTV News, “Combining over 60 pieces, showcasing masks, raven rattles, robes and regalia, the collection spotlights the First Nation’s long journey to reclaiming and rebuilding their traditions and customs, all while highlighting their distinct creativity.”
Critics and visitors alike have been deeply moved by the exhibition’s profound storytelling and breathtaking artifacts.
“The display of these belongings expresses the importance of Nuxalk reconnection with their material heritage, made by the hands of their ancestors...Past and present generations of Nuxalk artists are woven throughout the exhibit, reiterating the theme of nuyayanlh, reciprocal generosity”
At the exhibition’s opening event, Nuximlayc Noel Pootlass captured the significance of the moment, saying,
“It’s an amazing feeling today, and it’s awesome to see all the young people, the Nuxalk, the singers, the dancers that are so gifted. I’m grateful for all of you coming here to witness.”
His words echo the deep sense of connection and celebration that Nuxalk Strong has brought to the community and visitors alike.
Co-curated by Snxakila–Clyde Tallio (Nuxalk Nation, Director of Culture and Language) and Jennifer Kramer (MOA Curator, Pacific Northwest), Nuxalk Strong not only presents breathtaking regalia, masks, and ceremonial objects, but also contextualizes their importance in the ongoing journey of Nuxalk self-determination.
For a deeper dive into the exhibition’s impact, read some reviews here:
- Nuxalk Strong: Historic Nuxalk Exhibition Opens at UBC’s Museum of Anthropology | Coastal First Nations
- New exhibit showcases the history and culture of the Nuxalk Nation | APTN News
- World-first exhibition dedicated to B.C.’s Nuxalk Nation to open at the Museum of Anthropology | CTV News
- Clyde Tallio on new exhibit Nuxalk Strong: Dancing Down the Eyelashes of the Sun | CBC
- With the foresight of their ancestors, ‘Nuxalk Strong’ highlights a cultural revival | Indigenous
- Nuxalk Strong exhibit to feature treasures not publicly seen in decades | Windspeaker
