Looking at Totem Poles

Linda Perry is a senior policy analyst at the Ontario Ministry of
Colleges and Universities.

This scholarly guide to 110 totem poles in coastal British Columbia and
Alaska describes the various types, their purpose, and how they were
carved and raised. Each pole is depicted in a detailed drawing. The
accompanying text provides the historical and cultural background, along
with accounts of legends and sometimes the carvers’ comments.

The careful line drawings are helpful, but it is difficult if not
impossible to convey the majesty and power of such a towering art form
in a six-inch sketch. What Stewart does best is present insights into
the meaning and significance of this form of cultural and artistic
expression.