KESU: THE ART & LIFE OF DOUG CRANMER AT THE MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY

Doug Cranmer, Killer Whales

On at the Museum of Anthropology right now is the not-to-be-missed exhibition, Kesu': The Art and  Life of Doug Cranmer.

Eccentric, headstrong, and full of sharp wit, Doug Cranmer was -- and continues to be -- an important force in contemporary Aboriginal art. The definitive 'indigenous modern artist' (a title applied retroactively but fittingly by the show's curator, Jennifer Kramer), his work both inhabits and breaks with tradition, employing brilliant composition, bold colours, and unconventional subject matter in a compellingly stripped-down exploration of the traditionally ornamental Kwakwakw'wakw art practice.

If you're curious and want to learn more, Kevin Griffin wrote a very good article about the exhibition on the Vancouver Sun culture blog. The show closes on September 3rd, so be sure to check it out sooner than later!