The Wakas Pole

The Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec proudly houses the world's largest indoor totem pole collection. Upon entering the Grand Hall, standing in front of a white clapboard façade, you will find this striking beauty: the Wakas Pole that dates back to the 1890's. Named after Chief Wakas, a nineteenth-century descendant of the Owikeno and Nimpkish peoples of the central coastline of British Columbia (Western Canada), the carved figures on the pole represent members of the Chief's family. For specific details about this totem, please click here.

Morning Star

This would have been a perfect post for yesterday's Theme Day, however the shot was only taken this afternoon.

This vibrant ceiling mural, seven stories above the granite floor at the Museum of Civilization's Grand Hall, is called 'Morning Star' and was painted by award-winning Alberta artist Alex Janvier (ACAD alumni no less!). The 62 feet (19 metres) diameter mural has four quadrants that each depict a significant period in Native history:

yellow = First Peoples' harmony with nature;

blue = Native culture being overwhelmed by European culture;

red = revival and new optimism;

white = healing, renewed self-respect and reconciliation.

It really is a breathtaking, highly detailed work of art that shouldn't be missed on your visit to the museum. Just don't forget to look up!:)

Theme Day: Reflections

The Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, just across the Ottawa river, is now home to this group of 11 sculptures by Loius Archambault entitled Personnages. Initially created for the Canadian pavilion at Expo '67 in Montreal, they are poetically reflective of the Canadian people: how different we may be as individuals but essentially all the same deep down. The metal sculptures stand proudly against a perfect backdrop: the organic curves of the Museum as designed by architect Douglas Cardinal. As you can see in the reflection, we enjoyed perfect weather, too, for today's national holiday, Canada Day. Bonne Féte!

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants in this month's Theme Day

The Cancer Video

This building on Bank Street is no longer being used as a Spa and Video Rental store but has found new purpose as a billboard. On the right hand side window, the posters advertised a fascinating exhibit at the Museum of Civilization – Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures. These posters, on the other hand, I'm not so sure about. Since I took a photo and am blogging about it, I suppose the Canadian Cancer Society's approach to awareness is a success. Sadly, however, the disease is on the rise as approximately 470 Canadians are diagnosed with some form of cancer each and every day.