Archives for posts with tag: Museum of Anthropology

Our last full day in Vancouver began early with another delicious breakfast at the Central Bistro with I and M. They were also staying at The Sylvia. Then we hopped aboard a bus to UBC and spent most of the day at the Museum of Anthropology. There were some new exhibits to explore since our last visit. In the late afternoon we headed back downtown to Chinatown where we wandered a bit waiting for Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie to open. This was our second time there and what a treat. Since we were so early, we were seated at a great table. Every dish was superb and the desserts were divine. Best to go early or quite late, but also well worth the wait. As we ate so early, we were back at the hotel just after 7 so decided to walk through Stanley Park to see the Bright Nights display. This event is a fundraiser for the BC Professional Firefighters’ Burn Fund. Entrance to see the lights is by donation, but there is a fee to ride the Christmas Train. We didn’t ride the train, but it was still really fun! The strangest compilation of lights and displays I’ve ever seen, most looking like they had been donated from the long-forgotten corners of garages. The children there that evening were so loving it. There were great snacks for sale, live music and Santa was on hand for photos until 9 pm. Another fabulous day, perfectly festive!

One of my favourite little bits of MOA.

One of my favourite little bits of MOA.

Many decades of Yuletide decor represented. If I had more time in Vancouver I would love to research all the pieces to see how far back they go!

Many decades of Yuletide decor represented. If I had more time in Vancouver I would love to research all the pieces to see how far back they go!

These beautiful vintage reindeer were tucked away in a quiet part of the display.

These beautiful vintage reindeer were tucked away in a quiet part of the display.

This sweet little miniature village was one of my favourite vignettes.

This sweet little miniature village was one of my favourite vignettes.

After our great breakfast on Commercial Drive, we grabbed a bus to UBC. We took a bit of time to walk the grounds and found our way to The Museum of Anthropology. The building was designed by Arthur Erickson, draw enough for me, and filled with collections from around the word. As well as providing cultural and artistic treasures to view for the public, the Museum conducts research and conservation work and provides educational opportunities for school groups. They have a beautiful website to explore. Here are a few pics from our visit.

A view from inside the Great Hall looking out towards the outdoor exhibits.

The O’Brian Gallery featured Asian educational materials and artifacts. This beautiful Buddha was carved from Alabaster.

There were a lot of puppets among the collections! (For those who don’t know, we love puppets.) These are from Taiwan.

The Koerner European Ceramics Gallery.

View of the back of the building from the outdoor exhibits which include two Haida Houses.