Artists' Statement

Solidarity – Hand-carved Spindle Whorl on Red Cedar

When I thought of solidarity, I thought of working as one, or respecting and considering the impact of each other with each action we create as an individual or individual group. I used orcas to portray solidarity with the teamwork they exemplify in their everyday life. The orcas can be seen at the bottom of the panel, one orca is visible, and the other members of the pod have their dorsal fins beneath the surface. The orcas without their fins showing are a reminder of the work that takes place which isn’t always in the spotlight but it’s important work and isn’t always recognized but is appreciated. At the top of the panel are two eagles. I had a teaching shared with me that eagle feathers can be symbolic of brotherhood, kinship, solidarity. They have been said to be ancestors in my culture, or friends or relatives watching over you when we see them in our skies. They are protectors if you will. The design in the center is a mountain depicting a profile view of Mother Earth, and the bottom half is water done in wave designs. This is symbolic of the homelands we live on at the same time solidarity with all the life we share these lands and waters with. To me that is what solidarity entails, considering the impact we leave on all life with our actions so having Mother Earth and the water was important for me to include in the conversation of solidarity.

Charles (Chazz) Elliott – A coast Salish artist from T’sartlip First Nation on Southern Vancouver Island.

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