Event Details
Grandmother Camus
Saturday, April 20, 2024
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
St. Johns Blvd. and Q St. Vancouver, WA
Join Fourth Plain Forward in celebrating the installation of “Grandmother Camus,” a beautiful new welcoming figure carved by Yakama Nation artist, Toma Villa. Community members are invited to celebrate the installation of Grandmother Camus and learn more about her significance at a free Earth Day event at the intersection of St. Johns Blvd. and Q St. The event will include free food, vendors and family activities hosted by Columbia Play Project.
This public art piece depicts the poignant narrative of Grandmother Camus, who, out of profound love for her grandchildren, transformed into camas bulbs to save them from starvation. The sculpture serves as a symbol of unity and appreciation, embodying the deep connection between Fourth Plain Forward and the community it serves.
This monumental artwork pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of indigenous tribes and celebrates the significance of camas as a food source for generations. To recognize this important installation, the area surrounding the Grandmother Camus welcoming figure has been designated as a City of Vancouver Naturespaces site to preserve and expand native plant habitat along Fourth Plain.
Event Schedule
1 p.m. Gathering and Greeting
1:15 p.m. Program Begins
- Land Acknowledgment
- Welcome Drum Song
- Opening Blessing
- The Story of Grandmother Camus
- Unveiling Grandmother Camus Welcoming Figure
- Remarks from Councilmember Harless; Yakama Nation artist, Toma Villa; and community partners
1:45 p.m. Feasting and Socializing (all food and activities are free)
3:45 p.m. Closing Drum Song
Presented by Fourth Plain Forward, with support from Community Foundation of Southwest Washington and City of Vancouver.