Crafted with reverence and skill by Kwakwaka’wakw artist Lawrence Scow, this hand-carved paddle is an embodiment of Northwest Coast Indigenous artistry and cultural heritage. The paddle, hewn from a single piece of yellow cedar, features an intricate orca whale design, a revered symbol of strength, family, and protection in Kwakwaka’wakw tradition. The orca is rendered in the classic formline style, with bold, flowing lines. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the delicate curves and precise symmetry of the design, which is further enhanced by subtle touches of red, black and blue pigment, traditional colors that add depth and contrast to the carving.
Lawrence Scow’s work is deeply rooted in the cultural practices of his ancestors, and this paddle is no exception. Each stroke of the carving tool reflects a connection to the natural world and the spiritual significance of the orca as a guardian of the sea. The paddle is a work of art, meant to honour the traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. It serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Northwest Coast artistry and the profound relationship between Indigenous peoples and the land and sea that sustain them.
