Towering 21.3 meters high, the Kwakiutl Totem stands as a sentinel on Île Notre-Dame. This impressive sculpture has been a reference point since 1967. Let’s explore the story behind this remarkable artwork.
The Kwakiutl Totem was created by Henry Hunt and his son Tony Hunt. Henry Hunt was born in Fort Rupert British Columbia. He was renowned for his carved sculptures. He also researched all forms of art from Pacific coast Indigenous cultures.
From 1962 to 1974, Henry Hunt was chief sculptor at the Royal British Columbia Museum. His son Tony served as his assistant. Together they created many totem poles. These poles are displayed all over the world. In 1970, they jointly produced a totem pole for the Osaka World Fair.
The Hunts’ training came from generations of knowledge passed down. This tradition reached back to Charlie James. He was a renowned late-nineteenth-century artist. James was known for creating a specific style for the Kwakiutl of Fort Rupert. His son-in-law Mungo Martin was exceptionally talented. Martin became one of the great master sculptors of the Pacific coast. He passed his knowledge to Henry Hunt and his grandson Tony. Tony Hunt also founded Arts of the Raven Gallery. This organization is dedicated to teaching young Aboriginal sculptors.
The Kwakiutl Totem is carved from a red-cedar trunk. It features six mythological figures placed vertically. These figures include Gwa’wis the Sea Crow and Gila the Grizzly Bear with Salmon. There is also Sisiutl the Two-headed Snake. Makhinukhw is the Killer Whale with Seal in Its Mouth. Tsawi represents the Beaver and Numas the Old Man.
Some sections of the totem pole are painted in red green or black. Other sections are left unpainted. This adds to the totem’s visual appeal.
The Kwakiutl Totem differs from traditional totem poles. It was commissioned for the 1967 World Fair. It adheres to the aesthetic code of the Pacific Northwest coast. The six mythological figures represent several KwaKwaka’wakw clans. They do not represent a particular family line. This symbolizes the clans acting together in unity.
The artwork was an integral part of the Canadian Indians pavilion at the 1967 World Fair. Today it is the only remaining part of the pavilion. The pavilion recognized Indigenous nations’ contribution to Canadian society. It also highlighted their unique cultures. At the artwork’s inauguration on February 10 1967 a Kwakiutl ceremony complemented the official speeches.
The Kwakiutl Totem stands as a powerful symbol. It represents cultural heritage and artistic skill. Its presence on Île Notre-Dame enriches Montreal’s public art collection. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and history embodied in this impressive totem pole.