GATINEAU, QC, June 5, 2017 /CNW/ - Library and Archives Canada is proud to announce the launch of one of its most important exhibitions in recent years. Canada: Who Do We Think We Are? opens today and runs until March 1, 2018, at 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa.
The free exhibition, which features many original and rarely seen documents and artistic items, looks beyond the past 150 years to earlier periods, when figures such as Samuel de Champlain were exploring our country's potential.
Since the 17th century, explorers, artists, poets and politicians have weighed in on the question of Canadian identity. Although their thoughts may at times seem amusing, surprising or even misguided to current generations, they help us understand who we are, our country and the role of Library and Archives Canada as our nation's memory.
As you walk through the doors of 395 Wellington Street in Ottawa, you will be greeted by a striking display of beavers, maple leaves, and even a log cabin. Amongst these symbols, you will be able to admire a variety of other iconic and historical Canadian items.
The snowshoe tracks will then lead you to the Morley Callaghan Room where you will discover a fascinating display of original artistic and historical artifacts. Notable items include an original leather-bound book and map from Les voyages du sieur de Champlain, by Samuel de Champlain (1613); the only surviving journal from pioneer Catharine Parr Traill (1837); a self-portrait by Inuit artist Andrew Qappik (2003); Group of Seven Christmas cards (1926 to 1945); and an original watercolour painting by Susanna Moodie (1870).
Admission to the exhibition is free of charge.
High-resolution images available upon request.
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During this milestone year in the country's history, I am thrilled that this exhibition is providing free access to a fascinating part of Library and Archives Canada's collection of rarely seen original and artistic items. Canada: Who Do We Think We Are? is a one-of-a-kind display of diverse items that will allow us as Canadians to better understand ourselves, our country, and the important role that Library and Archives Canada plays in preserving and making known the country's history.
Dr. Guy Berthiaume
Librarian and Archivist of Canada, Library and Archives Canada
Useful links:
http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/about-us/events/exhibit-Canada-150/Pages/exhibit-Canada-150.aspx
http://www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/about-us/events/exhibit-Canada-150/Pages/quick-facts-about-exhibition.aspx
About Library and Archives Canada
The mandate of Library and Archives Canada is to preserve the documentary heritage of Canada for the benefit of present and future generations, and to be a source of enduring knowledge accessible to all, thereby contributing to the cultural, social and economic advancement of Canada. Library and Archives Canada also facilitates co-operation among communities involved in the acquisition, preservation and diffusion of knowledge, and serves as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions. Stay connected with Library and Archives Canada on Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and YouTube
SOURCE Library and Archives Canada
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to RSVP, please contact: Richard Provencher, Media Relations, Library and Archives Canada, 819-994-4589, [email protected]
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