Historically, house posts were typically part of the structure of Musqueam and other Coast Salish communities' longhouses. A house post tells the significance of land they rest on.
“Thank you to Musqueam Coast Salish artist Chrystal Sparrow for this beautiful piece and allowing it to have a home here," says BCCH Chief Operating Officer Sarah Bell. "The D.F.F. Leung Family Mobility Park is a space where Sunny Hill patients and their families can enjoy the outdoors in their own, quiet area, and this space is made all the more welcoming and peaceful by the addition of this house post. I know it will bring joy and light to lives of all the children, families and staff who visit the park."
The artist has shared that hummingbirds often symbolize playfulness, resiliency and optimism. On the post, Salish-inspired hummingbirds are feeding on flowers, surrounded by layers of green grass with elements of pink Salish crescent designs. The overall design represents positivity and perseverance to help Sunny Hill patients and their families get through difficult challenges by leading with good hearts.
Following the unveiling, BCCH Chief Operating Officer Sarah Bell blanketed Chrystal and Morgan Guerin, with the Musqueam Indian Band, to show respect for their important contributions to the community.
The house post was provided through the BC Children's Hospital Foundation's Children's Healing Experience Project. The program has supported nine sculptures, 27 murals, 15 framed art pieces, and 13 corridors with art graphics, in Sunny Hill.
Photo: (Left to right) Artist Chrystal Sparrow and guest speaker Morgan Guerin.
