Art at YVR

Nuu-chah-nulth artist Joe David’s Welcome Figures are located in the International Arrivals Level Meet and Greet Area, one of the busiest intersections of the airport. Carved according to the Clayoquot custom, these figures would traditionally be temporarily positioned on the beach, in front of the village, with arms raised, to welcome guests to special events. The male figure stands approximately 3.3 metres high. He wears the traditional knobbed hat, indication of a high ranking, possibly a whaling chief. The female figure stands approximately 3 metres high and wears the common domed hat. Both figures are dressed in apron-like garments traditionally made from the shredded, beaten, and woven inner bark of the cedar tree.