Did well known First Nations artist Norval Morriseau ever visit Ymir? Not likely, but if you’ve visited the Hotel Ymir recently, you may have seen his work and wondered how it came to be there.
Hans Wilking, the owner of the hotel, is originally from Duncan.
He has been a collector of art for many years, and through this interest has developed relationships with many artists, including such well known figures as E.J. Hughes, Simon Charlie and Morriseau.
Of his approach to collecting, Wilking says, “I collect work of people I know about, people who are of my time.”
This highly personal method has allowed him to develop a unique and wide ranging collection, one that speaks as much to his connection with the artists as it does to the work itself.
Featuring highlights of his collection, this exhibition is a rare opportunity, not only see original works of this calibre, but to have a glimpse inside the world of the collector himself.
The exhibition runs in Gallery A and will open tonight from 7 to 9 p.m. and run to August 28.
Touchstones Nelson: Museum of Art and History is located at 502 Vernon Street. For more information call 250-352-9813.