Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinStanding before the monumental totem pole at the entrance of the Bill Reid Gallery, a sudden wave of memories about our cultural legacy echoed in the intricate carvings before us.
Among the captivating exhibits, one sculpture stood out—a raven with wings poised for flight, its copper feathers shimmering in the light. We couldn’t look away, feeling an inexplicable bond to the ancient spirit it represented.
So, if you’re ready to experience the magic of Indigenous art and uncover the legacy of Bill Reid, dive into our article to discover the stories behind the masterpieces and immerse yourself in the richness of Indigenous culture.
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- What is the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art?
- What was Bill Reid's art style?
- How to Get to Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- Where to Stay near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- Where to Eat near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- What to Do in Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- Where to Shop near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
- Apps to Download for a Trip to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST) (UTC-8)
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art is anytime, really. But if you’d like to score free admission, drop by on the first Friday of the month from 2pm to 5pm.
Things to Know
Hours and Admission
The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art is open Wednesdays to Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm in winter (October until May). During summer (May until October), it’s open seven days a week from 10 am to 5pm.
If you’re an Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuits) individual, gallery member, Simon Fraser University student, and under 12 years old, you can come in for free. But for other folks, here are the ticket pricing:
| CATEGORY | REGULAR ADMISSION PRICE |
| Adults | $13 |
| Youth (13 to 17 years old) | $6 |
| Seniors (65 years or older) | $10 |
| Family (Family includes 2 adults and 2 youth) | $30 |
| Students (with valid ID) | $8 |
Tours
Joining a tour is a fantastic way to really get to know all about Bill Reid’s legacy and the cool stuff they’ve got going on in their special exhibitions. They’ve got tours tailor-made for ESL folks, seniors, and local community crews.
| CATEGORY | PRICING |
| Adults | $15 |
| Seniors | $12 |
| Students | $10 |
| Indigenous Peoples | $2.50 |
Tours are available from Wednesday to Friday, depending on their staff’s schedule. It’ll last for around an hour or so.
Parking
The Gallery’s got a paid parking lot underground, and it’s open every day from 6 am to 7 pm.
You can get in and out from Hornby Street. On the first level, P1, there are three spots for folks who need accessibility, plus an elevator that takes you over to the tower across the courtyard.
But heads up, you can’t get to the Gallery’s elevator from the parking lot. Oh, and if you’re looking for street parking, you can find some on the west side of Hornby.
What is the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art?
The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in Vancouver showcases indigenous artwork, preserving cultural heritage. The gallery is important for Indigenous art and cultural awareness.
It offers locals and tourists insights into Northwest Coast First Nations’ rich artistic traditions, fostering appreciation and understanding of indigenous cultures.
The Bill Reid Gallery stands out as Canada’s sole public gallery solely devoted to contemporary Indigenous Northwest Coast Art. In 2008, the gallery was founded by the Bill Reid Foundation to pay homage to the legendary Haida artist Bill Reid (1920 – 1998).
The gallery showcases the Bill Reid SFU Art Collection and hosts special exhibitions and events that foster connections among all communities, including Indigenous and settler groups.
You’ll find the gallery right in the heart of downtown Vancouver, just a short stroll from the Canada Line’s City Centre Station in Pacific Centre or the Millenium/Expo Line’s Burrard Station.
What was Bill Reid’s art style?
Bill Reid’s art style blends Haida traditions with his modernist aesthetic, crafting both intricate small pieces and monumental works that captivated the public’s imagination.
In 1954, Contemporary Northwest Coast Artist Bill Reid fully embraced Haida Art during a trip to Haida Gwaii.
While there, he connected with family members, including the master carver Charles Edenshaw, his great-great-uncle. This marked the start of Bill’s lifelong journey exploring the rich tapestry of Haida culture.
How to Get to Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
By car: head northeast on Hornby Street toward W Georgia Street. The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art will be on your left.
By public transit: The Gallery is conveniently situated in downtown Vancouver, just a short walk from both the Canada Line’s City Centre Station in Pacific Centre and the Millenium/Expo Line’s Burrard Station.
Where to Stay near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Fairmont Hotel
Address: 900 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-684-3131
Pricing: $$$
The Fairmont Hotel is a stunning historic castle conveniently located within walking distance of shops, events, and top-notch dining spots. It embodies Vancouver’s timeless luxury and rich history.
You’ll find a sophisticated restaurant with a bar serving international cuisine, along with a spa, a 24/7 fitness center featuring an indoor pool, and a grand ballroom for events.
Hyatt Regency
Address: 655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2R7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-1234
Pricing: $$$
The Hyatt Regency Vancouver is quite fancy—rooms are beautifully decorated with modern furnishings like carpeted rooms, marble bathrooms, and sleek furniture.
The room offers plenty of space without feeling overly large, with a nice TV and a decent view of the neighboring street.
You can enjoy a range of amenities, including an outdoor heated pool, a 24/7 fitness center, and a hot tub.
Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver
Address: 645 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2Y9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-687-1122
Pricing: $$
Across the street from the Pacific Centre Mall, this elegant hotel is a 3-minute walk to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art.
The location gets a solid 10/10. You could walk everywhere easily, and there are plenty of dining options and entertainment venues nearby.
A refined restaurant with an open kitchen serves international cuisine. The heated indoor pool sits under a curved glass ceiling with city views.
St. Regis Hotel
Address: 602 Dunsmuir St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1Y6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-1135
Pricing: $$
The St. Regis Hotel is a boutique gem housed in a heritage building right in the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant business district.
With two restaurants and a bar on-site, this locally-owned boutique hotel treats guests to a complimentary breakfast featuring favorites like omelets, bacon, and more.
EXchange Hotel
Address: 475 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2B3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-563-4693
Pricing: $$
The EXchange Hotel is a visually stunning boutique hotel situated in a fantastic, easily accessible location in downtown Vancouver.
Just a 6-minute stroll from the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, it offers amenities such as a Mediterranean restaurant, a cozy coffee shop, and a stylish bar.
Where to Eat near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Hawksworth Restaurant
Address: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada
Phone: +1 604-673-7000
Pricing: $$$
Hawksworth Restaurant, owned by chef David Hawksworth and located in the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, offers fine dining with a focus on Pacific Northwest cuisine and an impressive wine selection.
We decided to indulge in their weekly prix-fixe tasting menu, which was a steal at $36 for 3 courses! Every dish was delightful, but the eggnog and caramelized banana dessert stole the show for us.
Black+Blue
Address: 1032 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-637-0777
Pricing: $$
Black+Blue is a quintessential steakhouse renowned for its extensive array of prime cuts, ranging from Wagyu to US and Canadian Prime, alongside a curated selection of exclusive boutique products.
Their beef wellington and mac and cheese straws were especially decadent. The meat was exquisite, and the pastry and coating were simply sublime.
Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar
Address: 637 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-7671
Pricing: $$
Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar, a timeless yet modern steakhouse, has been a beloved Vancouver landmark for over 60 years.
The steak is impeccably smokey, rich, and tender. However, the standout feature is undeniably the exceptional service. While the price may not be budget-friendly, it’s truly an experience that will linger in our memories.
Toloache Mexican Kitchen
Address: 586 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 3B6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-565-0511
Pricing: $
A fantastic spot specializing in Mexican Street Food in downtown Vancouver. Toloache Mexican Kitchen’s food has a beautiful presentation using fresh ingredients.
We sampled the fusion burrito and taco, along with the sopes featuring octopus and chorizo. And for dessert, we indulged in a deliciously creamy flan. Every dish was absolutely amazing!
Alouette Bistro
Address: 567 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2E8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-8862
Pricing: $$
Alouette Bistro is a cozy French bistro with a two-level dining room, complete with a bar area and seating both upstairs and downstairs, featuring some charming intimate window seats on the second level.
Their poutine was divine, with rich, creamy gravy and perfectly crispy and seasoned fries. The lemon, butter, and garlic sauce paired with the shrimp was absolutely amazing. Make sure to soak up every last bit with the bread.
What to Do in Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Learn about the Northwest Coast at XIÁM
Media credit: billreidgallery
When: February 7 – May 19, 2024
Address: 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-3455
The XIÁM exhibit tells the stories of Indigenous Peoples through a combination of traditional storytelling and the more contemporary medium of comic books.
The exhibit showcases the work of five Indigenous artists: Jordanna George (T’sou-ke), Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas (Haida), Gord Hill (Kwakwaka’wakw), Whess Harman (Carrier Wit’at), and Cole Pauls (Tahltan).
In the SENĆOŦEN language, XIÁM translates to “to tell stories, specifically fictional or traditional stories.”
Visit the Retrospective George Clutesi Exhibition
Media credit: billreidgallery
Address: 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-3455
The George Clutesi Exhibition pays homage to the life and legacy of Clutesi’s profound influence on the preservation and celebration of the Nuu-chah-nulth community’s cultural traditions.
Here, you’ll see archival photographs and news clippings documenting his numerous achievements, watch a documentary highlighting his impact, and a curated selection of artworks created by contemporary Nuu-chah-nulth artists and scholars.
Check out Formline Calligraphy
Media credit: billreidgallery
Address: 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-3455
Formline Calligraphy showcases two and three-dimensional works by Bill Reid in collaboration with printer, calligrapher, book designer, and close friend, Robert Reid.
Bill and Robert shared a friendship from the mid-50s until Bill’s passing in 1998. This exhibition also includes some of Bill Reid’s writing and other pieces that have never been publicly displayed before.
Shop at the Gallery Store
Media credit: billreidgallery
Address: 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-3455
The gallery shop is your one-stop destination for an eclectic range of traditional and contemporary artwork and accessories. From hand-painted sculptures to finely-crafted jewelry, framed and unframed prints, and beyond, they have it all.
Featuring apparel, bath and beauty products, books, stationary, drinkware, jewelry, and gifts, the gallery shop offers a diverse selection of unique items ideal for any art enthusiast or gift-giver.
Where to Shop near Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Feuille Luxury
Address: 565 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2C2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-630-9151
Established in 2007, Feuille Luxury stands as an independent boutique offering chic urban clothing and accessories from upscale, contemporary designers.
Specializing in luxury streetwear, they proudly carry coveted brands such as Off-White, Heron Preston, and Palm Angels.
Studio F/X
Address: Cathedral Place, 925 W Georgia St Unit 150, Vancouver, BC V6C 3L2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-685-5509
Studio F/X boasts an impressive array of top-notch makeup products. Their selection is so extensive that they cater to the makeup needs of the film, television, and theater industries across western Canada.
From skin creams and liquids to glitters, powders, and more, they offer a wide range of products in every color imaginable. Whether you’re looking for water-based, oil-based, or silicone products, and beyond, they’ve got you covered.
Holt Renfrew
Address: 737 Dunsmuir St, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1E4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-681-3121
Nestled at the corner of Granville and Dunsmuir Streets, Holt Renfrew offers a stunning collection of designer brands in fashion, fragrance, cosmetics, and accessories for both men and women.
Home to an illustrious lineup of top-tier names including Tiffany & Co., Tom Ford, Gucci, and many others, Holts is a destination for luxury shopping at its finest.
Ever New Pacific Centre
Address: 701 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-423-4463
Ever New Pacific Centre is the spot for women’s clothing. From dresses and skirts to tops and outerwear, this boutique offers a wide selection of trendy and stylish pieces for every occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a casual daytime outfit or a formal evening gown, Ever New Pacific Centre has something for every woman’s wardrobe.
8PM SHOP
Address: 549 Howe St Unit 100, Vancouver, BC V6E 0B6, Canada
Phone: +1 778-996-2884
Founded in 2018, 8PM epitomizes street fashion at its finest. With an entire wall devoted to the latest kicks, it’s a haven for all you sneakerheads out there.
They also boast a wide variety of SUPREME items. Their clothing line is sure to elevate your current wardrobe to new heights.
Apps to Download for a Trip to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
PayByPhone: pay for parking spots in the city.
Transit: real-time information and updates about bus times, bus capacity predictions, and real time vehicle locations.
Uber: book a ride anywhere in Vancouver. Let’s you track the driver’s location in real-time on the app and provide an estimated time of arrival.
iOs | Android
Street Food Vancouver App: locate the best food trucks in Vancouver near you.
iOs | Android
