The Salish Summer Carving Series is back, and Master Carver Jonathan Joe will mentor his fellow Lil'wat Nation artist Redmond Q̓áwam̓ Andrews at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre (SLCC).
On July 4, the carving will begin with a cedar log blessing ceremony. Joe and Andrews will labour until Sept. 1 for the second year of a two-year immersive experience, continuing the progress of Master Carver Xwalacktun and Brandon Hall. Both pairs of carvings, when finished, will incorporate designs that honour the 1911 Declaration of the Lillooet Tribes.
“I’m excited to be carving and sharing time together with Redmond this summer, and meet everybody and create this pole for everyone. It’s a very inspiring time," says Joe in a press release.
Remarks SLCC curator Alison Pascal: "The presence of our Master Carver mentoring an Apprentice at the SLCC allows for deep and meaningful conversations that go beyond carving. We continue the long-standing education system of our ancestors, youth working side by side with knowledge keepers and elders. At the end is a beautiful carving, a visual reminder that transforms the intangible into tangible wealth and a reminder of how our families connect to the land."
More details are available on the SLCC website.
