Button Blankets: Exhibit, talk, and button drive

The Courtenay Museum will host an exhibit featuring button blankets created by artist Pamela Mitchell

The Courtenay Museum will host an exhibit featuring button blankets created by artist Pamela Mitchell from October 22 to October 30, 2026.

Mitchell is a K’ómoks First Nation member and their Culture Manager who has Kwakwaka’wakw and Coast Salish roots.

Her artwork can be seen around the valley including the NIC Courtenay campus, on a Comox Fire Department truck, and at her family-owned Cedar Bark Gallery on Bayside Road.

On Saturday, October 24, Mitchell will present a brief illustrated talk in conjunction with the exhibit that will touch on the history of button blankets as well as common KFN crests. The same talk will be given twice on Saturday, October 24, first at 1 pm and again at 1:30 pm. There is no charge to attend but pre-registration is required and there is a maximum of 20 people per talk so sign up early to avoid disappointment. Call the museum at 250-334-0686 ext 2 to register.

Button Drive

One of Mitchell’s many projects as Culture Manager is working to create a “treasure box” of ceremonial regalia items to share with KFN members who are without. Buttons are always needed to craft new blankets, and the public are invited to help by donating. Buttons must be white in colour but can be made from plastic or shell. Flat sew-through buttons are preferred. A drop box will be at the museum from October 22 to October 30 for those who wish to contribute.