What is Spirit Bears In The City?

Found only in British Columbia's northern forests, the rare "Spirit Bear" or "Kermode Bear" is widely recognized for its unique white colouring. A First Nation legend states that the Raven, their creator, made these bears white as a reminder of the time when the world was pure and clean and covered with snowdrifts and ice blue glaciers. Raven promised that these bears would live in peace and harmony forever.

This reclusive bear will travel south and congregate on Vancouver streets in May 2006 in support of the BC Lions Society's Easter Seal Operations and the Canucks for Kids Fund. The project has already taken roots throughout BC with nine communities committed to joining "The Spirit Bear Trail" - Vancouver, Victoria, Prince George, Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert, Port Edward and Whistler.

Here's how it works …

Local artists, in partnership with sponsoring individuals or organizations, will create a unique design and apply it to the surface of a life size (approx. 7ft) custom formed fiberglass Spirit Bear. The Bear becomes the artist's canvas. Once the work is complete, the Spirit Bear will be displayed in prominent public spaces around the participating cities with the majority being placed in Vancouver's downtown business core. A 'Spirit Bear Trail Guide' will be created and distributed throughout participating communities.