| Ceremonial Blessing of the Kwakiutl Bear Pole | |
| November 10, 2005 | News Release |
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On Thursday November 10, 2005 the recently re-stored Kwakiutl Bear Pole was officially blessed and welcomed at the Comox Valley Airport. Dozens of First Nations people from Alert Bay, Campbell River and the Comox Valley were joined by many politicians and dignitaries for the ceremony.
The totem pole was carved by the Kwakwala Arts and Crafts organization in Alert Bay in 1966. It was created as part of a project to establish the Route of Totems on Vancouver Island. Nineteen poles were created, all with the Grizzly Bear used as the dominant element. The mythical bird Kolus, akin to the Thunderbird, tops the pole with attached outstretched wings and a XwiXwi, part of Comox history, is on it's chest. K'How-' Jes, the Grizzly Bear, holds I-a-Hos-kin (canoe) and sits above Dzunukwa, a wild woman of the woods. James Sewid was project leader, Henry Speck was senior designer, Charlie George was senior carver and Blackie Dick was assistant carver. The pole was dedicated and located outside the Comox Valley Visitor Info Centre in Courtenay. The totem was taken down in 2004 to be restored due to extensive weather damage. The totem was restored by John Speck, son of Henry Speck. Due to the totem's fragile condition, an indoor place of honour was required for it. The Comox valley Airport was chosen as the ideal location for the pole where it has protection from the outdoor elements and maximum public exposure. It is on loan from the city of Courtenay. | |
| Kwakiutl Bear Pole was officially blessed | |
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