"Guardian" - Giclée Print
Description:
Print Method: Giclée
Edition: 99
Released: August 2004
Bears in my culture are often seen as guardians. During the T’seka ceremony, for instance, members of the Grizzly Bear Society traditionally watched over the proceedings and were the guardians of the Hamatsa Society. For the Comox people, the Grizzly Bear is one of our main crests and represents our community and it represents our strength. We are able to draw on that strength and protect our culture in the face of colonization and modernization.
In “Guardian,” the bear is rendered in the chilkat style. My Grandmother’s Great Grandmother was a noblewoman and chilkat weaver from the Tongass Tlingit. In my culture, this lineage gives me the right and privilege to design and wear chilkat garments. During potlatches, great chiefs were the ones who wore the chilkat tunics. They continue to wear these to this day to not only show who they are and where they come from, but as a form of ceremonial and spiritual protection. All of our most sacred and serious business happens in the Bighouse and, as such, the tunic acts as a protective mantle, holding up the wearer with ceremonial wealth and guardianship.
“Guardian” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in August of 2004 and printed by Andy Everson at the artist’s own studio in Comox B.C. A total of 109 prints bear the title “Guardian” and are signed by Andy Everson: 99 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/99 through 99/99; 9 Artist’s Proofs; and 1 Printer’s Proof. The acid-free mould-made Albrecht Dürer paper measures 13x19 inches. Image size measures about 11.5x17 inches.
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Indigenous Woman-Owned
Totem Design House is a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated lifestyle brand founded by Haida and Cree entrepreneur Erin Brillon. From our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory, we create products that blend traditional stories with modern design. Every purchase directly supports Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
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Our designs are created by award-winning Indigenous artists, including Andy Everson of the K’ómoks First Nation & Jesse Brillon of the Haida & Cree Nations. Each piece carries a story — celebrating our connection to the land, the ocean, and our ancestors. When you shop Totem Design House, you’re supporting real artists and helping to keep Indigenous traditions alive.