On Sunday, July 13, the Bowen Island Arts Council (BIAC) is sponsoring a free guided tour of Lieben hosted by Bowen Island’s own Bernice Lever. This event is being held in conjunction with Steamship Days as part of Bowen’s celebration of summer.
As many people know, Lieben was the name for the 10-acre waterfront property at Eaglecliff that was a retreat for writers, painters and performing artists throughout the 40s, 50s and 60s. Einar Neilson and his wife, Muriel, invested their time in entertaining a veritable “Who’s Who” of Canadian writers and artists including Eric Nicol, Malcolm Lowry, Earle Birney, Jack Shadbolt, Lemoine FitzGerald, Lister Sinclair, and Margaret Laurence. Very little is left of the Neilson home, but the property is just as beautiful as ever with stunning views across Howe Sound and beach access. The ghosts of so many creative souls whispering in the trees make the property a special place to gather.
The Lieben walk is a free event; however, participants are asked to reserve in advance by contacting Bernice at 604-947-0017. Everyone is welcome to join Bernice in enjoying the beauty of the gorgeous waterfront property and learning something about the historical significance of Lieben.
Bring a picnic lunch, water, paints, paper, pen, and a camera, and wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain that is also very steep in some areas. The sign to the Lieben lands is posted on Scarborough Road, two miles from the ferry dock. Catch the Eaglecliff #10 bus. The Lieben walk begins around 1p.m. Participants are welcome to stay all afternoon and perhaps even get in a swim if the weather is hot.
