A traditional Salish welcome figure will greet all visitors and residents each time they exit the airport.
The figure is part of a trio, which includes an orca and thunderbird totem (representing a balance of power as the thunderbird holds great spiritual power and the orca an awesome physical power and intellect) and a raven, wolf, and bear totem (raven a messenger, the wolf considered protectors of their sacred places and the bear respected as a family caretaker.)
“The totems are some of the finest I have seen anywhere. It is a proud day for the Victoria Airport Authority,” said Geoff Dickson, president and CEO, Victoria Airport Authority.
The three Coast Salish poles were created by master carver Charles W. Elliott and complete the vision conceived by retired VAA President and CEO Richard Paquette more than three years ago to create an authentic representation of First Nations art on airport lands.
“I am always humbled when asked to create a piece or pieces of artwork or carvings. I don’t take my involvement lightly. I feel I am working for my people,” Elliott said. “The artwork or carvings, I say are great ambassadors for our Saanich Salish Nation and speak to the world of our existence and history.”
The airport already boasts a handful of works by Elliott, including three carvings in the Eagles Landing Observation Lounge located on the third floor of the air terminal building and a series of swimming salmon carvings that line the bulkhead above the domestic baggage carousels.
The totems are located outside the arrivals doors at the West end of the air terminal building for all to enjoy.