November is Native American History Month. As with most indigenous cultures, the arts are so important in their rituals, history, mythology and passages.
There's a patriarch and chief of the Haida people, who was famous not only for his paintings, woodcarving, argillite carvings and jewellery, but also for his lineage of artists. His English name was Charles Edenshaw (1839-1920) and his Haida name was Tahaygen. (This week will be his art and over successive Thursdays this month, his famous family lineage. )
Edenshaw was recognized for his talents by the Haida people, collectors and anthropologists as an exceptional carver. He was renown for his originality and innovation while adhering to the strict guidelines of design principles of the Haida traditions.
By the time Edenshaw had developed his unique style, his works were in such demand that he made his living as an artist. He traveled extensively with his family through British Columbia and Alaska during the Spring and Summer, carving and selling his works.
Carved works included: chests, bowls, platters, masks, poles, canes to sell to outsiders; whereas his works using silver or gold were for family crests of Haida people. His carvings often explored the mythical such as the Raven stories of creation.
Edenshaw's works are in the collections of museums and there's a book available on Amazon of his works showing the details of his beautiful designs. (click on images to see enlargements)
Next week will continue the Haida artist, Jim Hart, Edenshaw'sgreat grandson and an amazing sculptor.
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