Levi Nelson – New Art Display at the Lodge
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Celebrating Indigenous Art: Levi Nelson's Creative Journey and His Latest Installation at Pemberton Valley Lodge
Art is a powerful medium for storytelling, cultural expression, and community connection. For Levi Nelson, a talented First Nations artist from Mt Currie, BC, Canada, his artwork is deeply rooted in his Indigenous heritage. It reflects the stories, traditions, and landscapes of his community. Levi’s unique and vibrant artwork was recently featured on a BC Hydro transmission line utility box at Pemberton Valley Lodge, beautifully merging culture and contemporary art in this scenic location.
A Glimpse into Levi Nelson's Roots
Born and raised in the picturesque community of Mt Currie, Levi Nelson is a member of the Lil’wat Nation, one of the many St’at’imc (Lillooet) communities in British Columbia. His upbringing in a culturally rich environment, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Coast Mountains, significantly influenced his artistic vision. From an early age, Levi was captivated by his people’s traditional stories, teachings, and visual arts, laying the foundation for his journey to becoming a professional artist.
Levi pursued his artistic education at Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver, BC, where he focused on painting and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. During his time there, he was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the visual arts, receiving the 2021 John C. Kerr Chancellor Emeritus Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts. His dedication to his craft and his exploration of Indigenous and contemporary art forms also earned him a place in the Permanent Collection of the Audain Art Museum in Whistler and the UBC & VGH Permanent Collection, as well as numerous private collections across Canada and the United States.
After completing his BFA, Levi continued his studies at Columbia University in New York, deepening his exploration of oil painting and mixed media. While studying in New York, Levi described his work as “Contemporary First Nations Art,” which encapsulates his blending of traditional Indigenous motifs with modern, abstract techniques. After graduating from Columbia University, Levi returned to his roots in Mt Currie, opening his studio and reconnecting with the land and culture that has always been at the heart of his artistic journey.
Bridging Traditions: Levi Nelson's Artistic Philosophy
Levi’s work is characterized by its vibrant colours, dynamic compositions, and layered meanings, blending traditional Indigenous motifs with contemporary elements. In his Artist Statement, Levi reflects on the process of cultural reclamation and identity through his “Sliced Series,” where he contemplates putting back together a shattered mirror, a metaphor for the cultural disintegration experienced by Indigenous peoples since first contact. He explores the tension between his Indigenous identity and the influence of Western culture, acknowledging that his “blood memory” connects him to the land, even as he navigates a path shaped by Western norms.
Through his art, Levi seeks to fuse the European tradition of oil painting with his understanding of Indigenous traditions, opening up new possibilities for cultural expression and artistic innovation. His work often incorporates the Pacific Northwest Form Line, Coast Salish Style, and surrealist photography while keeping the principles of modern art and the New York School of painting in high contemplation. Levi notes that his work is a dialogue between the past and the present. It is a way to explore future possibilities and imagine what it means to be an artist whose identity has been “interrupted, influenced, shattered, and then put back together from both sides.”
Drawing Inspiration from Ancestral Artifacts
While at Emily Carr University, Levi embarked on a unique project that involved visiting and studying ancestral belongings of the Indigenous Peoples of British Columbia, housed in the collections of the Audain Art Museum in Whistler and the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. Through study sketches and photography, Le drew inspiration from these ancestral artifacts, including masks, poles, blankets, and baskets, to create new works that speak to historical and contemporary Indigenous identities. Engaging with ancestral art forms enabled him to explore the continuity of cultural practices and to contribute his verse to the “stream of objet d’art that will be frozen in history and called upon to illustrate it.”
Levi’s work has been showcased in several prestigious venues, including the Talking Stick Festival, the Museum of Anthropology, North Vancouver City Art Scape, and the Emily Carr University of Art + Design Aboriginal Student Art Show. His contributions to the arts have been widely recognized, including being named Best of Pemberton’s Favourite First Nations Artist and winning the 2018 IDEA Art Award.
Bringing Art to Public Spaces
Levi is passionate about bringing Indigenous art to public spaces. He believes that art should be accessible to all and that it has the power to transform and inspire communities. His recent collaboration with BC Hydro and Pemberton Valley Lodge is a testament to this belief. The utility box wrapped in Levi’s artwork now stands as a vibrant focal point just 30 meters from the main entrance to the Lodge, across a roundabout frequently used by guests and visitors.
The hydro box, adorned with Levi’s distinctive style, features bold colours and abstract designs that draw the eye and invite passersby to engage with the artwork. The design, while contemporary, is deeply rooted in Indigenous symbolism, celebrating the cultural heritage of the Lil’wat Nation and its connection to the land. This installation not only enhances the area’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as a visual reminder of the rich cultural history that exists within the region.
Levi's Work - a "360"
The Significance of Levi Nelson's Work at Pemberton Valley Lodge
The installation of Levi’s artwork at Pemberton Valley Lodge is more than just an artistic endeavour; it is a meaningful integration of Indigenous culture into the everyday landscape. For David MacKenzie, the general manager at Pemberton Valley Lodge, featuring Levi’s work on the hydro box was an opportunity to honour the local Indigenous heritage and showcase the talent of a prominent First Nations artist. This collaboration reflects a growing recognition of the importance of Indigenous voices in public art and the role such art plays in fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.
The vibrant colours and dynamic patterns of Levi’s work on the utility box create a striking contrast against the natural greenery of the Lodge’s surroundings. The artwork beautifies the area and tells a story of heritage, resilience, and the ongoing relationship between the Lil’wat Nation and their land. This installation serves as a cultural landmark, inviting guests and visitors to reflect on the region’s rich history and the contemporary expressions of its Indigenous peoples.
Inspirational Artwork Available For Everyone
Levi’s artistic journey is a profound example of how art can serve as a bridge between cultures, histories, and communities. His work, inspired by his Indigenous roots and the natural beauty of his homeland, continues to inspire and educate. The recent installation of his artwork on the BC Hydro utility box at Pemberton Valley Lodge celebrates art and culture, offering a space where visitors can engage with the rich traditions of the Lil’wat Nation in a contemporary context.
As more public spaces embrace Indigenous art, the opportunity to foster cultural appreciation and understanding grows. Levi Nelson’s work stands as a powerful testament to the vibrant and enduring spirit of Indigenous cultures, beautifully woven into the fabric of modern Canadian society. The next time you visit Pemberton Valley Lodge, take a moment to admire the utility box—a small but significant canvas that tells a much larger story.
Why Stay at Pemberton Valley Lodge?
After a day of adventure, there’s nothing quite like returning to the welcoming comfort of Pemberton Valley Lodge. We’re located just minutes away from Adventures on Horseback, offering the ideal retreat after a day spent out on the trails.
Imagine soaking in our hot tub or swimming in the outdoor pool while gazing out at the stunning mountains you just spent the afternoon exploring. Whether you’re sharing stories with friends or simply soaking in the peace and quiet, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
