Urgent: Iconic Totem Pole Returns Home After 60 Years of Deterioration

UPDATE: A significant cultural artifact, the Kwakiutl Bear Pole, is set to return home after nearly 60 years in Victoria, British Columbia. The Greater Vancouver Harbour Authority has announced that the totem pole, carved by renowned artist Henry Hunt, will be relocated due to increasing deterioration. This urgent decision comes as the pole has stood at the corner of Belleville and Government streets since 1966, serving as a vital representation of First Nations art and culture.

The totem pole will be taken to Fort Rupert on the northern coast of Vancouver Island, where it will rest with Hunt’s son, Stan Hunt. “It’s amazing to think about how many people from around the world have learned about First Nations’ art and culture through this totem pole,” Stan Hunt stated, emphasizing the global impact of this iconic symbol.

Originally repaired and repainted in 2014, the totem pole has continued to deteriorate, prompting this urgent move. The harbour authority confirmed that totem poles are considered living artworks, with a natural life cycle of about 50 years. Traditionally, they are returned to the earth, but due to its prominent location on a busy sidewalk, the Hunt pole is being returned to the family instead, marking a poignant chapter in its history.

In place of the totem pole, a cedar planter will be installed while the harbour authority consults with the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations for potential new artwork. This development highlights the commitment to preserving Indigenous culture and the importance of community engagement in such decisions.

This news is particularly relevant as it underscores the ongoing dialogue about the preservation of Indigenous art and heritage in Canada. As the Kwakiutl Bear Pole embarks on its journey back home, it serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of First Nations art.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and the future of Indigenous art in British Columbia.