Haida Totems

While visiting Vancouver this year, we took a trek out to UBC so I could see my old school. We walked around campus, checked out the old dormitory, and ended up at the Museum of Anthropology. The building’s architecture is spectacular, and once inside, you will find a rich and fascinating collection of handmade items from so many cultures around the world. The craftsmanship alone of many of the pieces will leave you speechless.

When I was living at the university, my friends and I visited the museum on many occasions, but this was the first time I actually went IN. Chuck was surprised hearing this. I believe he said “But you lived here!” My response, “Umm, well, we mostly just sat outside by the totems and drank.” C’mon! I was 18; there’s no appreciation for anything at that age.

The museum’s great hall boasts a large group of totem poles and carvings highlighted beautifully by the massive amount of natural light streaming in. One of the many photos I snapped was of three Haida totems standing one in front of another. As soon as I saw the image, I wanted to paint it. I love painting weathered items and there’s something so beautiful in the cracks and age of totem poles. They are fun to paint.

Here is the painting from the original photo (above) with some “in process” images. You can purchase prints of this piece on my Society6 page. There are t-shirts, iPhone, iPod and laptop items available too!