First Nations artist shares success with his community
June 17, 2009--Alano Edzerza is launching his newest collection of artwork on June 18, 2009 and is donating 25 per cent of his total sales to Vancouver Foundation. Through an anonymous donor with Vancouver Foundation, his donation will also be matched dollar for dollar.
A member of the Tahltan Nation located in B.C.’s northwest, Edzerza says that “I have always been part of a close-knit community and benefited from the generosity of organizations like Vancouver Foundation. It’s now my time to give back”.
Edzerza belongs to the Raven Clan and has been an artist since he could hold a pencil. At age 13 he received a sculpture award from the school board of Victoria and his early talent developed rapidly into a professional career.
Now 28, Edzerza works in various media including paint, sculpture, silver, glass, stone and steel. He has installations throughout North America and an international following. Last year, Edzerza was recognized at the B.C. government’s First Aboriginal Business Awards.
“It’s inspiring that Alano, a gifted artist and flourishing entrepreneur, is sharing his successes with Vancouver Foundation and his community,” says Lisa Pullan, Vice President of Development and Donor Services at Vancouver Foundation. “We applaud his dedication, look forward to doubling his donation and hope to do many great things with him in the future.”
Edzerza’s new show, entitled “Gift of the Raven”, launches at his gallery on June 18, 2009 at 6 p.m.
and features a performance by the Northwest Coast Mask Dance ensemble. Twenty-five percent of his total sales will be donated to Vancouver Foundation between June 18 and June 29, 2009.
For event details, and to see Edzerza’s work, visit www.edzerzagallery.com
With more than 1,200 funds, and assets of $662 million, Vancouver Foundation is Canada's largest community foundation, and one of the oldest in North America. In 2008, Vancouver Foundation distributed $60 million through 3,331 grants to communities and innovative projects across British Columbia. Since it was founded in 1943, Vancouver Foundation, in partnership with our donors, has distributed more than $725 million.
For more information:
Alano Edzerza
Edzerza Gallery
778.836.6111, director@edzerzagallery.com
1535 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver BC
Andrea Majorki
Communications, Manager
Vancouver Foundation
604.688.2204, andream@vancouverfoundation.ca
