Millions of beads enthral thousands of museum visitors

Millions of beads enthral thousands of museum visitors

Since its opening on April 15, 2005, more than 100,000 visitors have seen this colourful exhibition that provides a showcase for one of Africa’s most vibrant and enduring art forms.

“The remarkable objects shown in Beads of Life are more than things of beauty,” says Dr. Victor Rabinovitch, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation. “They are powerful tools, paying homage to ancient traditions and showing cultural pride. Our visitors have responded with appreciation and enthusiasm to this beautiful exhibition.

The exhibition features more than 185 objects from Canadian collections. Among them are exquisite pieces of jewellery and items of beaded clothing from South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Botswana, Sudan and Zimbabwe. Beads of Life includes personal testimonies and observations from Canadians of eastern and southern African origin.

In February, the Museum is also celebrating Black History Month and visitors are invited to two special events:

February 4 — 10 a.m. to noon and from 12:30 to 4 p.m. — Main Lobby
Masks, Figures and Fetishes
Gabonese artist Blaise Ivoulou demonstrates traditional African woodworking. Learn the meanings and secrets rooted in this age-old art form.

February 26 — 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. — Grand Hall
Ekongo Ya Mbé-Mbé
A performance by a spirited group of African dancers and drummers.

More information is available by calling (819) 776-7000 or 1 800 555-5621.

Media Information:

Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: (819) 776-7167

Media Relations Officer
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: (819) 776-7169

Fax: (819) 776-7187

2006-02-03 00:00:00.000
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