A longstanding totem pole outside Lonsdale Quay public market is getting a proper send-off before it is taken down.
The Squamish Nation on Wednesday conducted a “closing of the eyes” ceremony to honour the aged and worn totem pole, before its removal to make way for waterfront construction.
City of North Vancouver Mayor Darrell Mussatto and Seaspan CEO Jonathan Whitworth were also in attendance, along with other city and Seaspan employees.
The totem pole has sat on the front edge of the Seaspan-owned Carrie Cates building since 1985.
“This log, when they brought it to me, was very special to me,” said Stanley Joseph of the Squamish Nation. “It was a 500-year-old log and I know it today when I look at it, its eyes can be opened up again for the people to enjoy it, for the people to be protected by this pole. It is very sacred to us.”
Joseph was the main artist and carver of the totem pole who was commissioned, along with three friends, to create the piece in the early ’80s.
“It’s a sad day for me because I’ve lost friends who helped me carve it, and I know they’re here today and they’re happy for me that I’m still here and doing my artwork and carrying on in this life,” he said.
Joseph said he was grateful that city and Seaspan representatives were present for the ceremony honouring the totem pole and its long presence in the community.
Although it will be removed from its current location, Mussatto said that if the totem pole was restored it could potentially find a new home on the upcoming Spirit Trail.
“This area is changing, and I think in a very positive way,” he said. “But we think it’s very important to make every effort to incorporate the pole and the spirit into the Spirit Trail. We’re really happy to work with the Squamish Nation to do that.”
Joseph said he wants to personally work on the restoration of the totem pole. “I’ve been restoring totem poles for over 40 years. I was taught by Bill Reid when I was in college as a young man. This totem pole can be refurbished and put back together. Its eyes can be opened again,” he said.
