FULL CIRCLE: First Contact exhibit opens at Canadian Museum of Civilization

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, is pleased to announce that the FULL CIRCLE: First Contact exhibit is now on display at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Hull, Quebec until September 9, 2001.

"The opening of the FULL CIRCLE exhibit in St. John�s and Corner Brook last year played a major role in the Vikings! 1000 Years celebrations and offered residents and visitors alike a wonderful learning experience," said Minister Aylward. "In Newfoundland and Labrador, approximately 15,000 people toured the exhibit and gained an insight into the province�s relevance in ancient history."

FULL CIRCLE: First Contact is a traveling exhibit of the Newfoundland Museum and is presented under the patronage of UNESCO. It recounts the story of Viking and Aboriginal contact at L�Anse aux Meadows 1000 years ago. The exhibit displays an array of 300 Nordic and Aboriginal artifacts, Viking legends and artistry. It is presented in English and French. Visitors are guided through the exhibit with a self-directed personalized audio unit and headset. International journalist and historian, Gwynne Dyer, narrates the contact story.

Minister Aylward said, "We are delighted to have the opportunity to display the exhibit at the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Our province has many significant stories to contribute to our national history, which we love to share with the rest of the world." From here the exhibit will travel to other points throughout North America, including Montreal, Vancouver and Seattle, Washington, in 2003. Subsequent touring locations for the exhibit have not been finalized.

"I would like to thank the Millennium Bureau of Canada for its financial support for the project, as well as Parks Canada for lending support both financially and through the assistance of staff. Both organizations have played an integral role in bringing this exhibit to life," added Minister Aylward. "I must also acknowledge the staff of the Newfoundland Museum for their hard work and dedication in producing this first-class exhibit."

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2001 04 19                      4:35 p.m.