In regards to the Jasper totem pole, the primacy of story is paramount.

It is a homecoming story. It is an art story. It is a story of continuity and changing values. It is the return of an artifact and the beginning of a new chapter.

The purchase of the new totem is an exercise in public art. A $300,000 deal to acquire one of the most sought after creations on the Canadian artistic scene – a totem from the Haida Gwaaii carvers. Nations around the globe are clamouring for these pieces, which are becoming rare as the number of massive cedars diminish. Carved totems evoke the spiritual, the natural world as interpreted through the eyes and hands of the Haida. They are also valuable works of art, which will require special preservation. The former totem, despite a few ugly paint jobs and some rot, is still valued in the millions.

The return of the old totem is being handled delicately by the government. At the official announcement, there was no mention of the details of the deal between Grand Trunk railroad and the Haida nearly 100 years ago, only that the railway ‘acquired’ the pole 93 years ago and that it’s important to Canada that it be returned. Take from that what you will. But new bridges are being built.

The previous totem pole was cherished, even if its presentation was out of context. Many confused tourists assumed the totem was created by local first nations people – even the minister of environment admitted as much – so the pressure will be on Parks Canada to tell this story properly. However the piece opens the door for such dialogue, and perhaps will allow for greater discussion not only about one’s relationship to the natural world, but to relationships with First Nations people.

But this isn’t just about federal government/first nations relations. What about the art?

All good art should produce an emotional response, and public art often produces the most vitriolic. So will this be a worthwhile effort that will enhance the town – the Eiffel tower of Jasper, according to the carver Guujaaw? Or will it be a waste of federal tax dollars? The new totem will differ from the original, so at this point it is impossible to gauge that initial gut reaction. Since the deal is still in its infancy, there is much that can change. Will the pole reflect Jasper? Will it be a completely new vision developed by the carver? How will that relationship develop? We’re confident Parks will let the artist work and anticipate the unveiling.

Haida totems have long been an integral symbol of the Canadian tapestry, telling the story of the lands west coast first nations. Jasper is fortunate to be in a position to acquire such a prize, The story is just beginning.

Call for columnists

The Fitzhugh is looking for a few good columnists.

If you are interested in writing a column for the paper – perhaps once every two months – on topics relevant to our readers, we want to hear from you. We’re looking for a cross section of opinions from all facets of the Jasper, Hinton and Valemount communities. Be it well-argued essays or a knack for telling compelling stories, interested writers should email Justin Brisbane at editor@fitzhugh.ca. A brief writing sample or idea of your area of expertise is appreciated.

Have your say in the pages of The Fitzhugh.