Epiphany
Description:
Epiphany
Sometimes we are fortunate to have visions. Whether you believe that these visions are sent by your ancestors, your Creator or your very active imagination, they are nonetheless special and deserve to be cherished. Personally, I’ve been known to envision my future and revisit my ancestral past. Sometimes my visions end up on the walls of a house or in the words of a book. When your visions are so profound that they force you to see your life in a wholesale new way, this is an epiphany.
Chief Robert Joseph had one such impactful epiphany. He recalls: “I saw the whole of creation unfolding. First I saw Johnstone Strait and it had colours that I've never seen before. Energy unlike anything I've ever seen. Then I saw on the other shoreline on the other side of the bay. We were anchored up the forests, and through the trees, there were lightning bolts going through it. Finally I was looking way up into the heavens. And I saw the whole universe. I couldn't even describe it. I had found myself in such a dark space. During my epiphany, I moved into a place of belonging. We all belong to this arc of the universe, the whole universe. My vision of the universe is almost like a rainbow collage, like with all of the brilliant and dark colours of life. The darkness is as important as the light.”
Late last year, he approached me to turn his vision—his epiphany—into a piece of art for his new book, Namwayut. Now, you have to understand that I have an immense admiration for this man that I literally could not say “no”, even if I had wanted to. He has always been there for my family—from my grandmother all the way down to our young ones—that this time I wanted to be there for him. This is my interpretation of my chief’s epiphany, using his crest and his chiefly thunderbird name Kwi̱nkwi̱nxwa̱ligedzi Wakas to be the cornerstone of this image. For all that he has done—from being the voice in our potlatch system to being the face of reconciliation and cross-cultural understanding—this one is for you, “Bobby Jo”!
"Epiphany” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in August of 2022 and printed by Andy Everson at Totem Design House in Comox B.C. A total of 251 prints bear the title “Epiphany" and are signed by Andy Everson: 199 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/199 through 199/199; 19 Artist’s Proofs; 19 Remarque, and 4 Printer’s Proof. The acid-free Moab Entrada 100% cotton rag paper measures 17x22 inches. Image size measures about 14.5x19 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.
Are Totem Design House products sustainably made and eco-friendly?
Yes. At Totem Design House, we prioritize eco-friendly materials and sustainable production practices. Whenever possible, we source organic fabrics, recycled metals, and locally produced materials. Most of our products are designed and made in-house to reduce our environmental footprint and ensure exceptional quality. Supporting Totem Design House means supporting Indigenous artists and a business that values sustainability, cultural integrity, and ethical production.
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.