Distress
Description:
Print Method: Giclée
Edition: 20
Released: January 2017
Paper Size: 17" x 22"
There are times in our lives that day-to-day concerns sink under the weight of global events. We watch in disbelief and hang our heads in disappointment. Sometimes we even shed a tear…we feel helpless and forlorn. We hang our personal flags upside down as a sign of distress.
For those of us born outside of the United States of America and without the franchise to vote for the leader of the “free” world, this despair runs deep. We’ve watched helpless as a dubious businessman and reality TV star descended an escalator to announce his candidacy for the President of the United States. We laughed. When he said he wanted to build a wall, we rolled our eyes. When he encouraged violence towards protesters, we were shocked. Surely this would destroy his reputation? It didn’t. He continued his rhetoric of hate…his doctrine of xenophobia. When it was thoroughly confirmed that he was a misogynistic megalomaniac, people still supported him.
Despite losing the popular vote by a significant margin, he was elected in as President of the United States. The world recoiled in shock. This man is really not right in his head—he is not all there. With his little hands on the nuclear codes, we are petrified. With the power and desire to further destroy the environment, we are terrified. We are heading into the stormy seas at night with a mentally inept man at the helm of the world. We don’t know which direction we are heading….
We will raise our flag, but we will be vigilant. We will continue to fight back. We will look out for our neighbours. We will use our voices to speak out for the environment and Indigenous rights. We the people will not go gentle into that good night….
“Distress” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in January of 2017 and printed by Andy Everson at the artist’s own studio in Comox B.C. A total of 32 prints bear the title “Distress” and are signed by Andy Everson: 20 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/20 through 20/20; 4 Artist’s Proofs; 4 Remarques, 2 Special Edition Canvas Proofs and 2 Printer’s Proofs. The acid-free 100% cotton rag paper measures about 17x22 inches. Image size measures about 12.65x19 inches on the paper editions.
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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.
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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.