This painting is a reflection of totem poles. Each individual on this planet has a story and there are many ways to express these stories.
The totem poles of the Northern West Coast told the histories of the Nations, families, and individuals, and held essential material and spiritual elements of culture. The markings are rich visual documents of identity. Once outlawed and stolen by Europeans, the tradition of creating totem poles has been revived and these rich cultural containers are being reclaimed, restored, even returned. We all hold our own markings and knowing our story is essential to empowerment.
Artist +-
Carmel Whittle
Carmel Whittle is a Mi'kmaw/Irish cultural community visual artist, independent film maker, musician/songwriter and activist. She identifies as Mi'kmaw-Irish, 2-spirit, a queer Newfoundland and Labradorian woman, who has been transformed by: the knowledge of the genocide lands of the Beothuck, First Nation Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador, and by the modern movements of resistance and creation. What she saw in the catalyzing power of youth - such as the Nishiyuu Walkers from Northern Quebec to Ottawa, and the ongoing Idle no More resistance movement - helped her not just to move beyond, but to strive to unite suffering and devastation with strength and hope.
The transformative power of art is the change. Whittle wants the viewer to explore, question, reflect and seek. Her intention is to express hardships behind bountiful colours rich in a style that leave the viewer in a state of inquiry. These works hold suffering and strength; and through her personal journey she wishes to provoke the creation of new realities, new awarenesses, and new forms of resistance. Metis leader Louis Riel said "My people will sleep for 100 years but when they awake it will be the artists who give them back their spirit.” (Louis Riel, July 4, 1885)
Donation +-
Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to the No Borders Art Festival.
Artwork Details +-
Printed, using the giclée method, on Hahnemühle German Etching fine art paper. A 310 gsm traditional mould-made copperplate printing paper, complete with an inkjet coating. The white art paper made from 100% alpha cellulose is characterised by its extraordinary velvety tactile feel and its fine, clearly defined felt structure with traits of a traditional artist board. It is acid- and lignin-free and meets the most exacting requirements in terms of age resistance.
Frame: Artwork is printed without a frame.
Shipping: Delivery duration is 4-7 business days within the UK, 7-10 business days across Continental Europe and 10-20 days for the rest of the world. Delivery to some countries will be subjected to additional import VAT and duties to be paid to the courier directly.