A totem pole for Cologne

An ordinary Cedar tree is transformed into a unique totem pole! In 2013, from August 21 to October 5, Cowichan First Nations carved this meaningful gift for the city of Cologne.

In their tradition, it symbolizes a signpost: it offers protection, strength and wisdom. Over several weeks, a thunderbird, a bear, a she-wolf and two salmon took on their wooden form - they symbolize the close connection between humans and nature.

The Cologne totem pole has been standing in the garden of the Children's Hospital in Amsterdamer Straße since mid-November 2014. There, it constantly reminds all patients, relatives and staff of the natural cycles of life and serves as a constant source of encouragement.

This campaign was made possible by the generous support of Globetrotter Cologne.

As soon as the two of them start working on the trunk of the beautiful tree, passers-by stop and marvel. Many of them pick up a carving knife themselves and, under the expert guidance of Uncle Harold, are shown how best to carve the intended figures. Children, in particular, stop enthusiastically and persuade the master carvers to help out themselves.

The two Cowichans feel the warmth and the continuing interest in their work and in the ancient forests of Canada's west coast by the people of Cologne. They are pleased to be able to pass on a piece of their endangered culture through this project, and to be able to draw attention to the threats that the forests of their home are facing.