Gildas-- So, what the heck is a Gildas?? Gildas is the traditional Native Kwakwaka'wak name given to the symbolic box in which each Native American family stores their treasures. The songs, masks, dances and stories which record their personal heritage.
In July 2000, the Gildas Box of Treasure Theatre, featuring
the cultural traditions of the Laichwiltach people of Vancouver
Island, opened in a dramatic cedar building on the waterfront
of Campbell River, British Columbia. Owned by the Campbell River Indian Band, the Gildas offers tourists an opportunity to participate in the
authentic dances, songs, and stories of the Laichwiltach
First Nation people.
They have opened a Unique, one-of-a-kind gallery housed in a magnificent contemporary interpretation of a Native Big House. Located in the Discovery Harbor Center, the "Wei Wai Kam House of Treasures" features the work of numerous native artists of the Northwest Coast.
The House of Treasures is truly the "Gildas" of Campbell River’s Native American families. Here, you will find distinctively carved totem poles, colorful native masks, jewelry created in unparalled design, clothing, home accessories, dolls and souvenirs of all distinctions. Prices here are definitely not inexpensive! Most items far exceeded our budget, but we enjoyed seeing the magnificent art and craft items on display in such a typical setting. We were able to afford to buy some high quality sweatshirts with native designs for about $40 each -- not true native art, but wonderful souvenirs anyway!
You can visit the Native Art website at www.houseoftreasures.com