Whale House
Description:
Whale House
Print Method: Giclée
Edition: 99
Editions: Primary, Artist Proof (A/P)
Released: December 2014
Since time immemorial, five of the ten K’omoks groups or sub-tribes would gather together every year in our ancient ancestral lands on Quadra Island: the Sałułtxw, the Sałułtxwbut or Ḵ̓umugwe, the Sasitła, the Kutkudutł and the Yayaḵwitła. It was here that they formed the Ḵwa̱nis’awt̓xw, or “Whale House”, a metaphorical construct denoting shared ancestry and a common origin. The groups represented the “five fires” of the Whale House with two at the head, one in the body and two in the tail. It is said that the Whale House groups were the very first of the K’omoks to live in plank houses. It is also said that only members of this lineage could paint a whale on the front of their house amongst the K’omoks—a tradition my grandfather, as a member of the Sałułtxw, continued when he built his Bighouse in the 1950s.
Once a year, young men of the Whale House used to go out into the ocean in a huge carved whale. Our old people would say that it was almost like a submarine—it could submerge and then reappear on top of the water. When they would resurface, they’d eject eagle down out of the blow hole of the whale. One day long ago, this submarine failed to resurface. The people looked for the young men in vain until they noted that the whale was mysteriously transformed into an island. It is at Gowlland Harbour on Quadra Island where the sons of the Whale House chiefs were said to be entombed in rock forever.
The K’omoks First Nation once again harkens back to our ancient history in deciding to name our new administration building the “Whale House”. It is felt that we can call on the strength of our ancestors to guide us; to ensure that the decisions made within the walls of the new building will be sound ones that benefit the continued strength of the K’omoks people.
“Whale House” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in December of 2014 and printed by Andy Everson at Copper Canoe, the artist’s own studio in Comox B.C. A total of 109 prints bear the title “Whale House” and are signed by Andy Everson: 99 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/99 through 99/99; 9 Artist’s Proof; and 1 Printer’s Proof. The acid-free Moab Entrada 100% cotton rag paper measures 17x22 inches. Image size measures about 15.5x19.3 inches.
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Are Totem Design House products authentically Indigenous-made?
Yes. Totem Design House is proudly 100% Indigenous-owned and operated. All of our designs are created by Indigenous artists, including award-winning Northwest Coast artist Andy Everson, and the majority of our products are made in-house at our studio on K’ómoks First Nation territory. By purchasing from us, you are directly supporting Indigenous artists, cultural revitalization, and sustainable business practices.
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About us
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.
Guided by Indigenous Values
Totem Design House is more than a lifestyle brand — we’re a social enterprise. A portion of every purchase supports Copper Legacy Indigenous Empowerment Society, funding initiatives that uplift Indigenous communities and cultural revitalization. Through our products, we share the stories, teachings, and traditions of our ancestors, creating opportunities for education while celebrating authentic Indigenous artistry. Our work is grounded in sustainability, reciprocity, and respect for the land and culture.
About Our Artists
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.