Common Threads: How the Land and Sea Has Survived and Thrived
Exhibition: September 16 – October 12, 2025 during library open hours
Location: Qualicum Beach Regional Library
Explore how local textile artist Joyce McLellan shares her stories, understanding of the natural world, and the knowledge she has gained through lived experience. This dynamic display of quilts, textiles, felting, natural dyeing, and textile painting is sure to inspire.
Joyce McLellan was born and raised on the waterfront within Tsleil-Waututh Nation territory until the age of nine. Many family members helped teach her the ways of the people, but she remembers the teachings of her grandfather, Chief Dan George, most vividly. The ocean was both her playground and her teacher, showing her the circle of life on the waterfront. It was truly the best time of her childhood.
Even while living in Ontario for 25 years with her husband Brian and their three young children, Joyce remained deeply connected to the land, mountains, and ocean. They rarely lived in cities, consciously choosing a country lifestyle to raise their family. Once retired, Joyce and Brian returned to B.C. to reconnect with their large extended family.
Joyce has always felt a strong connection to her Indigenous roots, culture, and art—especially through quilting. She has also explored many other art forms, including watercolour, doll making, acrylic painting, and card making.
