The people of the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation have lived in the area now commonly called the Sea to Sky Corridor for thousands of years. In an unprecedented cooperative venture these two First Nations have created the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.
Designed in the form of a Squamish Longhouse and Lil’wat Istken (earthen dwelling with fire pit), this 30,400 square foot complex was created by the Squamish and Lil’wat people to share their living cultures with the world.
Opened in June 2008, the Centre includes a multi–media theatre, outdoor arts and crafts demonstration area, First Nations gift shop, café and a catering facility in a spectacular natural setting on a 4.35 acre site in Whistler.
The initiative’s cultural significance coupled with the facility’s dramatic architectural design make the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre a must see for visitors to British Columbia.
Visitors enter the Centre through massive carved cedar entry doors. The doors’ exterior have a carved First Nation’s theme specially designed and completed by aboriginal artists Jodie Broomfield from the Squamish Nation and Johnnie Abraham, Jonathon Joe and Bruce Edmonds of the Lil’wat Nation. These artists have also created the stunning work displayed on the inside of the doors.
In 2007, the AFOW approved a $50,000 grant for the completion of these doors.
For more information about the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre visit http://www.SLCC.ca.
American Friends of Whistler 