24" long, deep carving with a lot of detail and a beautiful colour scheme.
This impressive 2-foot long halibut wall panel, carved and painted with traditional Kwakwaka’wakw black, red, and green, is a testament to the artist's deep connection to the sea. Lawrence Scow, a lifelong fisherman and Kwakwaka’wakw artist, brings his intimate knowledge of the ocean's inhabitants to life in this stunning piece. The halibut's form is rendered with exquisite, deep, and detailed carving, highlighting its powerful shape and the intricate formline designs. A captivating feature is the carved face on the tail, embodying the Native animist worldview where everything is alive and possesses a spirit. This detail underscores the respect and understanding Scow has for the natural world. The interplay of the traditional colours against the carved cedar creates a dynamic visual experience, reflecting the vibrancy of the ocean's ecosystem. Scow’s cultural knowledge and artistic skill converge in this panel, transforming a fish into a powerful symbol of life, spirit, and the interconnectedness of all beings. This panel is not just a piece of art, but a story told in wood and colour.
The Halibut symbolizes wealth and security to Native people. Halibut is carved on totems poles and jewelry. Traditional feast serving bowls are often carved with a halibut design.
