Totem Pole

Wesley Wyse (b. 1980, B.C., Canada) – Wood Totem Pole. Eagle, Bear, Killer whale – Stained Yellow Cedar Pole carved in the Coast Salish style developed in the Pacific Northwest that dates back at least 5,000 years. It is a two-dimensional style characterized by low-relief (shallow) carving in the wood, where the negative (background) areas are carved away to reveal the positive form of the animal on the flat surface of the material. The style is characterized by exaggerated identifiable features. This piece measures 23 x 2 x 2 inches. On the back is the artist’s signature and the images depicted are listed as “Eagle, Bear, Killer Whale.” The eagle symbolizes power, prestige, wisdom, peace, and leadership. The bear symbolizes strength, independence, and teaching. The killer whale (orca) symbolizes love, loyalty, family, and protection.

Wesley Wyse identifies as a member of the Nanaimo band / Musqueam tribe of the Coast Salish peoples, indigenous to the Pacific Northwest Coast. He was taught by his late stepfather, Coast Salish carver/designer/artist Joe Becker, and started to work with him in carving at age of 16. Wyse works with red and yellow cedar woods, glass, stone and also creates jewelry. He carves talking sticks and totem poles in different sizes. Wesley also learned engraving techniques from established artist Kelvin Thompson.