2020 Year of the Rat
Lantern Stories
Jack Poole Plaza
SALISH SEA
Thomas Cannell
This design is a Salish Sea motif featuring the teachings and culture of the artist’s ancestors. This contemporary iconography of the Pacific Northwest includes representations of Black Fish, Dog Fish, Eagles, & Salmon. The Salmon symbolizes instinct, determination and persistence. Salmon is also a symbol of abundance, wealth and prosperity because the Salmon is the primary food source for the Coast Salish. It is also symbolic of dependability and renewal, representing the provider of life. Salmon in pairs are good luck.
The Black Fish (Orca/Killer Whale) symbolizes family, community and protection. He is said to protect those who travel away from home and to lead them back when the time comes. Orcas travel in large family groups, working together to preserve themselves. Orcas will often stay their whole life with the same family. It is believed that humans and orcas are closely linked, and that when great chiefs die, they become killer whales.
LONE WOLF
John Velten
A lost lone wolf who’s been separated from its pack, calls out each night to communicate for others who may feel similar. During the day he hunts and travels seeking shelter to survive. Often he’ll need to compete to feed himself, as a lone wolf is unrecognized by other packs. He gains strength throughout his journey that gives him abilities other wolves lack. Senses that are heightened gaining an edge in combat.
This piece is a reflection of some people’s lives, who are abandoned, separated or forgotten and as the world keeps moving without them, they keep fighting for themselves.
RED FAWN
Carrielynn Victor
The piece is a combination of Coast Salish design principles, from hand drawn or carved mediums and also from woven textile patterns. The red fawn in this piece, is representative of the medicine that a fawn offers, in its curiosity, exuberance for life, and its gentleness. The zigzag patterns and coloring in the background depict paths travelled in the forests.
PROTECTOR OF THE MOUNTAIN
Zachary “SKOKAYLEM” George
The face on top is a representation of the artist’s ancestors sending prayers out to cover the land and people. The mountains are shaped like salmon heads because the snowmelt is the water they swim in and represents a strong connection in the artist’s Salish culture.
The Lantern City is grateful to be held on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish Nation), and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). We acknowledge our privilege to be gathered on this land, and commit to work with and be respectful to the Indigenous peoples whose arts and stories inspire us to bring communities together.
