Beautifully carved, streamlined First Nations Orca Whale carving measures 18 x 5 inches, priced at $415. Cinnabar red, green and black painting highlights the very fine-grained, old growth red cedar used in this masterfully carved piece.

This artist is a member of the Squamish Nation which consists of descendants of the Coast Salish Aboriginal peoples, originating from the greater Vancouver area, Gibson’s Landing and Squamish River watershed. This young artist’s style is a blend of strong family Kwakwaka’wakw art styles, and unique personal taste towards contemporary inspirations. He is a member of a premier artistic family.

The Orca whale (also known as Blackfish or Killer Whale) is an important medicine animal to the Native American tribes of the Northwest Coast. Orca whales are considered a totem of power and loyalty, and catching sight of one is considered a momentous omen.

Many First Nation peoples view the Orca as a special protector of humankind and never hunted killer whales (although they were very accomplished hunters of Gray whales and other similar species.)