IISAAK OLAM Foundation established Nuu-chah-nulth art gallery to promote cultural revitalization and economic growth at IPCA’s Clayoquot Campus in Tofino, B.C.
The IISAAK OLAM Foundation aims to create the Naa’Waya’Sum Art Gallery and Carving Facility at the Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA) Innovation Centre at the Clayoquot Campus in Tla-o-qui-aht Ha-houlth-ee (Tofino, BC.) The art gallery will enhance economic and educational opportunities, while strengthening Indigenous representation in tourism.
Through a series of renovations and new infrastructure development, the facility is set to become a culturally significant destination that celebrates Indigenous heritage and knowledge. By creating this commercial hub, Tla-o-qui-aht, Ahousaht, and Hesquiaht First Nations’ artists will gain access to the thriving visitor economy across the Tofino and Ucluelet Region.
The Naa’Waya’Sum Art Gallery and Carving Facility is dedicated to showcasing Indigenous art and culture by creating authentic experiences that attract visitors drawn to cultural tourism. It also looks to prioritize wellbeing and inclusivity of the entire community through a variety of project goals. This project is expected to create positive impact focused on Cultural and Nature-Based Tourism.
Economic Prosperity: While the region already enjoys a vibrant tourism economy, developing this art gallery as a comprehensive cultural attraction will help activate the growing regional focus on cultural and educational tourism. The project aligns with strategic goals outlined by 4VI, Tourism Tofino, Destination BC, and Indigenous Tourism BC. It is anticipated to draw regional and international tourism to the region, positively impacting local businesses, restaurants, and accommodation providers.
Social Empowerment: Jobs and seasonal internship opportunities created through the Naa’Waya’Sum Gallery will prioritize Nuu-chah-nulth first nations’ members. It will also empower local artists, working in a variety of mediums including carving, weaving, painting, jewellery making, among others, to display and sell their work.
Cultural Vitality: Alongside the commercial hub, the gallery is being created as a comprehensive cultural centre. It is designed as a space for knowledge transfer and community education through displays, interpretation, and sale of Indigenous artwork. All displays will include interpretive materials, in a variety of languages, to educate visitors on the origins and significance of the art pieces.
Infrastructure improvements also enhance cultural vitality by introducing a facility-wide focus on accessibility, inviting a broad diversity of visitors to experience the Naa’Waya’Sum Art Gallery.
Jeff Bartlett
Communications and Impact Manager
Island Coastal Economic Trust
jeff@islandcoastaltrust.ca
250-871-7797
Monica Shore
Co-Founder and Executive Director
IISAAK OLAM Foundation
monica@iisaakolam.ca
250-802-7193
Island Coastal Economic Trust approved funding for this project in March 2024 through the Capital and Innovation program.
We work in reciprocal relationships with coastal communities across the ancestral territories of the Kwak̓wala, Nuučaan̓uɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda'xw, Pəntl'áč, She shashishalhem, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
