Three unique artistic exhibitions have launched at the Vernon Public Art Gallery (VPAG), offering an intriguing blend of diverse narratives.

Renowned syilx artist David Wilson Sookinakin's vibrant set of paintings entitled Pictograph Roots is also on display.

The paintings reinterpret traditional pictographs found throughout syilx Nation territory.

鈥淢y art is ever-evolving and a true representation of my identity as an Interior Salish person,鈥� says Sookinakin. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a natural evolution of pictographs, transforming their ancient forms into contemporary interpretations. Through art and words, I tell stories that celebrate our unique and vibrant First Nations art forms.鈥�

The Vernon and District Immigrant and Community Services Society has collaborated with the VPAG to showcase Home on syilx Territory.

The series, facilitated by syilx Nation members Mariel Belanger and her daughter, Sienna, had participants will explore allyship, traditional Tule mat-making and the cultural significance of marshlands.

Vietnamese-Canadian painter Chrystal Phan has a set of narrative oil paintings on display titled Once for a While.

Using personal and family challenges, Phan captures the poignant, humourous and often awkward moments of cultural integration.

Her work challenges stereotypes of Canadian identity while inviting viewers to reflect on their own lives through intimate and reliable narratives.

The series includes works such as Turkey Dinner (2021), which portrays the challenges of blending cultural traditions in everyday family life.

鈥淏y sharing these stories, I hope to collapse the boundary between public and private experiences,鈥� Phan explains, 鈥渟o that viewers can find connections in these moments of cultural collision.鈥�

All three exhibitions will be on display until March 5, 2025.

The VPAG is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

More information can be found at