Read the full article from Island Coastal Economic Trust here.
The IISAAK OLAM Foundation is establishing a new commercial space at the Naa’Waya’Sum Gardens that will empower nuučaanuł entrepreneurs. The project will enhance Indigenous business development in tourism, provide visitors with a cultural tourism experience, and improve infrastructure for Indigenous entrepreneurs through a new project investment with Island Coastal Economic Trust.
The Naa’Waya’Sum Art Gallery and Carving Facility will provide a place to display nuučaanuł art and carvings, alongside weavings, paintings, prints, jewelry, and other local Indigenous artwork. By working in collaboration with a diversity of artists and organizations, including local Indigenous artists and cultural organizations such as the Carving on the Edge Festival Society, the project strives to meet the needs and aspirations of those involved.
The carving facility, which also received funding support from the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, will become a space for mutual learning and knowledge transfer. By working in tandem with the new art gallery, the Naa’Waya’Sum facilities will prioritize Indigenous community members employment and seasonal internships, while increasing Indigenous representation in the vibrant visitor economy across the Tofino and Ucluelet region.
The Naa’Waya’Sum Art Gallery will be located at the Naa’Waya’Sum Gardens, overlooking Clayoquot Sounds, in Tla-o-qui-aht Ha-houlth-ee, Tofino, BC. Image courtesy of Ben Hazel.
