The Reincarnation of W – Yun Lam Li, Kate MacDonald, Cameraman

Through video projection, photography and painting, three Vancouver artists reflect on our neighbourhood’s most famous landmark in transition.  “The Reincarnation of W” is the title of Yun Lam Li’s major multi-year work tracking both the collosal and intimate changes to Woodwards. This exhibition is a joint curatorial initiative of the member organizations of the Centre for Creative Technology & Community Arts.

From Yun Lam Li’s artist statement: The big red neon ‘W’ was often used by Vancouverites to navigate the city, not just to the huge brick landmark of Woodwards Department Store, but to other desired places as well, perhaps even ones just dreamt.  As a new immigrant, buying my first ‘Canadian’ outfit at  Woodwards  certainly started me on a journey.  Now, many years and many careers and many layers of identity later, I find myself considering the direction of the next part of my journey.  Thus I was dismayed yet fascinated by the deliberate destruction of this iconic Vancouver landmark. What can arise from this pile of dust and concrete? How will ‘W’ be transformed? I, too, am hoping for something in the nature of reincarnation for my own self. I ponder the direction ?W?  will take in the next chapters.

Munch 8: Co-Creating the Creative City
Mark Kuznicki (Toronto), Nov 2, 4-7pm
In conjunction with the exhibit opening, we present an afternoon dialogue on Downtown Eastside cultural planning issues. (see other side for details)

Woodward’s Creative
Technology Centre Open House
Nov 29, 5-7pm, Free, Gallery Gachet
“The Reincarnation of W” exhibition is being presented by the Woodward’s Centre for Creative Technology & Community Arts (CCTCA). Meet the crew, and find out more about our exciting project for the future of Woodward?s. www.creativetechnology.org