The free public event, hosted by NIC’s School of Fine Arts and Design, runs Thursday, Feb. 22 at the Stan Hagen Theatre at NIC’s Comox Valley campus.
The evening also features a reception and the launch of fundraising efforts to support future Artist Talk Series.
“This is set to be a wonderful night,” said Sara Vipond, series coordinator and NIC instructor.
“Having Rande Cook on campus is a huge privilege for us,” Vipond said. “This is an artist who brings great cultural depth to his work. It will be fascinating to hear his insights.”
Cook was born in Alert Bay on Vancouver Island. The natural beauty of his surroundings served as inspiration in his early years, as did his grandparents, whom he credits for instilling important life and cultural values.
He has solidified his status as a talented artist in several mediums, including wood sculpture, metal work and painting. He trained under mentors in Italy and New York and his works can be seen in galleries in the US, Canada and around the world.
He credits his international travel and exhibitions with a desire to push the boundaries of traditional works such as ceremonial masks and potlatches with performance, carving, photography and painting.
Cook holds two hereditary chieftainships: the first from Matilpi on BC’s central coast of BC, known locally as Hamatam or House of the Seagull; and the second for Gigalgam (Alert Bay) from the ancient ancestor Kwanusila/Thunderbird. He currently lives and works in Victoria.
Previous speakers in the Artist Talk Series included Rick Leong and Clive Powsey. Also scheduled to appear are artists Nadine Bariteau (March 8) and Brendan Tang (March 22).
The series is organized locally by NIC’s School of Fine Arts and Design, to provide artistic inspiration and opportunities for artists to learn about the local and international art world directly from distinguished professionals.
The signature reception outlines giving opportunities to sustain the series for years to come.
“This series offers so much to the community, whether you’re a new artist or a local supporter of the arts,” Vipond said. “Any support to ensure it continues in the future is appreciated.”
The evening starts at 6 pm with local wine, refreshments and sponsorship details. Cook will speak from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, followed by a chance for guests to meet fine arts faculty, artists and alumni.
For more information on the series, or to donate, visit https://foundation.nic.bc.ca/what-can-i-do/sponsorship.
For more information on NIC’s fine arts programs and courses, visit https://www.nic.bc.ca/fine-art-design.
