Northwest Coast Art Exhibition

Kitimat, BC – March 20, 2025

The Kitimat Museum & Archives is proud to host the annual Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art Student Exhibition, running from March 8 to April 5, 2025. This highly anticipated exhibit showcases the remarkable talents of first- and second-year students from the renowned Terrace-based art school, offering the public a chance to experience the vibrancy and depth of traditional First Nations Pacific Northwest Coast art.

Featuring a diverse array of pieces—including intricately carved wooden masks, paintings, and prints—the show highlights the students’ mastery of traditional techniques under the guidance of expert instructors. Many of the artworks are available for purchase, providing a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to support the next generation of Indigenous artists.

Named after the legendary Haida artist Freda Diesing, the school was founded in 2006 by master carvers Dempsey Bob, Stan Bevan, and Ken McNeil. Located at Coast Mountain College on the unceded territory of the Ts’msyen Nation, it remains the only institution of its kind in Canada, dedicated to preserving and advancing the rich artistic traditions of the Northwest Coast. The curriculum blends cultural heritage with contemporary innovation, offering courses in carving, painting, drawing, and art history.

The Upstairs Gallery, where the exhibition is held, is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the display. The museum encourages attendees to explore the works, which reflect both the legacy of Freda Diesing—a master carver and champion of First Nations culture—and the fresh perspectives of her artistic successors.

Highlights of this year’s exhibition include award-winning pieces by students recognized for their exceptional talent

This year's President's Choice Award went to Elijah Morberg with his piece Raven - Tsek'iye.

The 2025 Honourable Mention went to Kashka Clellamin for The Balance Between.

The Kitimat Area team would like to thank Holly Peterson for giving us a look at the exhibit.

The event runs until April 5, giving visitors ample time to experience the art firsthand.

For more information, contact the Kitimat Museum & Archives at 250-632-8950 or visit www.kitimatmuseum.ca. Don’t miss this celebration of creativity, culture, and community—open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Noon to 4 p.m.