LE,NONET
About the image:
Throughout local Aboriginal traditional territories the old people have always asked the young of their nations, “to make their minds strong, and to use the best of both worlds.” This teaching has been captured in the new name for the project, “LE,NONET” (a Sencoten or Straits Salish word pronounced "lenongit") which refers to achieving success after enduring many hardships. Artist and Master Carver Charles Elliott (Tsartlip First Nation) has translated a classic spindle whorl design, depicting a human surrounded by a pair of wolves, which speaks to the capacity of students to use the best of both worlds; in this case the traditions from local First Nations on one hand and on the other hand academic preparation for a new world. According to the teachings of the old people we are never far from the Creator, we are connected to all living things and it is focus and respect for the past which brings us strength to enter a new day and time.
The Spindle Whorl was originally a tool used by women to weave wool for nobility blankets, clothing, and ceremonial items. These were carved by men and thus, in the strictest spiritual sense, the end product contained the focus and training of both men and women.
About the artist:
Charles
Elliott is a member of the Tsartlip First Nation, located on the Saanich
Peninsula just north of Victoria, BC, on the shores of Saanich Inlet.
Salish art and wood carving have been his main focus over the last 35
years, inspired by the love of his Salish Art Tradition. He is very versatile
in his creativity and over his lifetime career has produced a large volume
and variety of art objects ranging from traditional carvings and paintings
(masks, animal & bird bowls,
totem poles, etc.) to more contemporary pieces (murals, doors, textiles,
etc.) and original paintings. Charles is self taught, although inspired
by others, and has dedicated his life to the revival and survival of
the Coast Salish art discipline which was in grave danger of being
lost. He has privately tutored and taught many young artists to their
point of success as well as taught in classroom settings throughout
the Victoria School District. Charles Elliott is a Master; his works
are held in private collections around the world with numerous works
in and around Victoria.
In recognition of his work to bring “the visual language of the Coast Salish Nation to life, when it was in danger of being lost” and to “rediscover the symbolic imagery of the Coast Salish people,” Mr. Elliott was awarded The Order of British Columbia by Lieutenant Governor Iona Campagnolo in June of 2005. Congratulations Charles!