The Campbell River Art Gallery is hosting a special pumpkin carving event on Saturday, Oct. 17, inspired by its current exhibition. The workshop invites participants to use the themes from the gallery's First Nations artwork to create unique, imaginative designs.

What is the exhibition about?

The current show, titled Super/Natural Creatures, features work by several First Nations artists, including James Kwaksistala (Kwakwaka’wakw), Charles Jules (Nuu-chah-nulth), Alexander J. Mark (Nuu-chah-nulth), and Thomas Whiteley (Inuit, Kuujjuaq). Running until Oct. 31, the exhibition explores traditional Indigenous worldviews, ancestral stories, and supernatural figures.

Creative themes for carving

With Halloween approaching, the gallery is encouraging attendees to explore their artistic side by moving beyond traditional jack-o’-lantern faces. The event allows participants to combine seasonal traditions with visual storytelling and art. Instead of standard expressions, the gallery suggests experimenting with:

  • Mythical animals and supernatural creatures
  • Fantastic faces and unusual patterns
  • Designs inspired by legends and imagination
  • Creatures drawn from ancestral stories

Event details and participation

Supplies and pumpkins are included for the workshop, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. While all skill levels are welcome, the gallery recommends the event for those aged 14 and older, or younger individuals accompanied by an adult, because sharp tools will be used. Participants are also permitted to bring their own carving tools if they prefer.

Registration for the session is handled via an online system through a donation to the gallery. This event serves as a way to engage the community with the Super/Natural Creatures exhibition, which highlights the intersection of animals, transformation, and the supernatural through the lens of Indigenous artistry.

FAQ

Who can attend the carving event?

The workshop is open to all skill levels, though it is recommended for ages 14-plus unless an adult is present.

When does the art exhibition end?

The Super/Natural Creatures exhibition is scheduled to run until Oct. 31.