"We need to have more of his [Syliboy's] artwork in the public sphere, and recognize the heritage of the Mi'kmaq people," Silverman says. "It's important for the community, especially the law school, where all kinds of people will now be able to enjoy his works."
Artist Alan Syliboy, left, with Allan Silverman, who decided to purchase some of Syliboy's paintings after seeing them in an exhibition at the Dalhousie Art Gallery last year. (Danny Abriel photos)
A long-time patron of the visual and performing arts, Silverman had been looking for a way to make Syliboy's work available for more to enjoy. An opportunity presented itself in 2024, when he went to the Dalhousie Art Gallery to see Alan Syliboy: The Journey so Far, a 50-year retrospective celebrating the artist's work. Silverman discovered that several of the pieces in the exhibit were on loan from the estate of Marcia Hennessy, a long-time friend and supporter of Syliboy's who collected his art for 30 years.
"She lived in the United States, and I felt that, rather than have these paintings go back there, I should see if there was an opportunity to purchase some of these paintings so that they stay in Halifax and honour Alan and our community."
