The Three Watchmen

Three totem poles stand guard on the coast of Haida Gwai along with their animal counterparts. These cedar totem poles are called Watchmen. The native people of the northwest coast carved these cedar totems for the protection of their people and their lodges. Their stylized carvings are created using specific patterns and in this painting the first pole represents a bear, the second a wolf and the third an eagle. The native tribal members all had totem animals as spirit protectors. I visited the south coast of Haida Gwai and saw these poles standing on the shore.

Here are some meanings for these animal protectors…

The Bear is a symbol for power, courage, physical strength and leadership. Warrior’s are known to wear bear claw necklaces which meant protection. In Haida culture the Bear is referred to as “Elder Kinsman”  and was treated like a high ranking guest.

The Eagle symbolizes grace, power and great intellect. It is a sacred and noble creature representing power and prestige to the First Nations people of the Northwest Coast.

The Wolf represents strong family and clan ties , intelligence and communication. Of all the land animals the wolf has the strongest supernatural powers.

Each of these original art prints are hand-made using a unique blend of inks in our home studio in Bellingham, WA. Inspired by coastal living and the history of the Northwest . Prints are created on Epson 6000 Watercolor Texture Paper with Permanent UV Resistant Epson Inks.