Remarks by the Honourable Steven L. Point, OBC
Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
Opening Of The Inaugural Exhibition Of The
Bill Reid Gallery
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Vancover, British Columbia
Thank you to George MacDonald, President of the Bill Reid Foundation, for inviting me to participate in this, the opening of the Bill Reid Gallery. I would also like to acknowledge some very distinguished guests: David Gillanders, Chair of the Foundation; Dr. Martine Reid, Honorary Chair of the Foundation; and Jim Storie, Chair of the Bill Reid Trust.
As Lieutenant Governor I have the privilege of attending many events throughout the province. Many of these honour the deeds of people who have contributed greatly to the cultural, historic and economic fabric of British Columbia.
I was once told that there are giants among us; men and women who define the very essence of what is British Columbia. It is unnecessary for us to pay tribute to them because their contribution and legacy speaks so loudly for itself. Bill Reid is a giant among us if in spirit only, yet a giant nevertheless.
Words almost seem trivial and pail against the majesty of such works as the Black Canoe or the Jade Canoe and many, many others located all over the world today. Like gazing up at giant Douglas fir trees, we can only stand in awe, looking upwards with quiet amazement at his life journey and be thankful that he passed our way.
At Government House we have been fortunate to have had on loan to us one of his great pieces of Haida Art, commissioned in 1954 by Anne and Douglas Stevenson. Representatives from every country in the world have had the pleasure of viewing it in the Main Dining Room over the mantel place for almost five years. Thanks to the Bill Reid Foundation and the Stevenson Family for providing this magnificent carving which has graced Government House and enhanced its grandeur as the ceremonial home of all British Columbians.
Congratulations to the Bill Reid Foundation for what is a very impressive opening and on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen and all the citizens of BC, may I wish you success over the coming years. Thank you.
- Honorary Aides-de-Camp:
- - Superintendent David Valentine
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