A pair of totem poles will soon grace the entrance to Vancouver Island University’s Shq’apthut building, a gathering place used for cultural events and feasts. It is the indigenous space at VIU, a home away from home for aboriginal students.
The carving will be carried out by well-known artists representing three Vancouver Island tribal groups: Coast Salish, Kwakwaka’wakw and Nuu-chah-nulth.
Participating carvers George Hunt Jr. (Kwakwaka’wakw) and Qwaya Sam (Nuu-chah-nulth) were on hand for the announcement of the project. Noel Brown will also work on the totem poles, as will Thomas Jones of Snununeymuxw. Student Sherry McCarthy explained that VIU operates in each of the three tribal territories so it was important to feature the work of artists from these areas on campus.
Shq’apthut was built just over three years ago, and while there was a plan then to have the poles carved, the idea was scrapped due to funding shortages. But thanks to McCarthy and successful fundraising efforts by VIU students, plus a matching contribution from the university, the plan for the poles was revived. McCarthy announced on April 10 that the first two of three totem poles would be raised by the end of 2014.
Funding is in place for two totems to be carved out of donated logs. Carving will begin soon.
Qwaya Sam is a Nuu-chah-nulth artist from Ahousaht. He grew up with strong cultural teachings from both his parents. He began making drums in 1986. His talent did not go unnoticed and great artists like Bill Reid and Roy Vickers commissioned drums from Sam.
While living in Port Alberni, Sam worked with artist Patrick Amos. The pair worked on a totem pole for Alberni District Secondary School. Some of Sam’s work can also be seen at Haahuupayak School where he took part in mural painting. Sam and his family now live in Campbell River.
George Hunt Jr. started carving in the early 1970s, learning the art from his father George Hunt Sr. Over the years he trained with many noted artists and is also a highly respected traditional dancer. He has roots with the Mowachaht and proudly holds a name from there.
While the artists say they have ideas about what they may be carving the exact details haven’t been finalized. McCarthy says she is leaving design details to the wisdom and vision of the artists.
Hunt Jr. looks forward to the work. The nature of the project, he said, is to give back.
“We’re making inroads; just look at this place,” said Hunt, gesturing to the openness of Shq’apthut.
“We can come together and do something for future generations coming to VIU,” Hunt said.
“This is a world-class institution with visitors from around the world . The time is right, so let’s grab a hold,” he continued.
McCarthy said that aboriginal protocols for harvesting the trees and carving the logs will be respected. She acknowledged that each artist has unique ceremonies for such occasions and the artists will work together to find a mutually respectful way to observe each other’s cultures.
Students continue fund-raising efforts to pay for a third totem. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council has donated $500 toward the project.
The two poles will be carved on site under tents so that visitors and students may observe the work in progress. The totems are expected to be complete by Oct. 31, 2014.
