Cedar Moon by Pam Holloway, Kwakwaka’wakw

Cedar Moon, 1991
by Pam Holloway, Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation
silkscreen, edition of 163
31” high x 45” wide framed

Cedar played an important role in the everyday lives of the Kwakwaka'wakw people. Durable and easily worked, wood gave life to great totems, mysterious masks, musical instruments, and the massive long house structures. Cedar bark was woven into baskets, sleeping mats, everyday garments, and adorned the sacred masks of the red cedar bark ceremonies. From its many uses came the name "Tree of Life." The print Cedar Moon depicts tall and proud cedar trees silhouetted by the Moon.

Pam Holloway's unique painting style reflects the rich and proud heritage of her Kwakwaka'wakw background. A grand-daughter of the late Chief James Sewid, Pam holds strong teachings of the culture. Born in 1962, Pam has ties to both the Kwakwaka'wakw and Tsimshian First Nations. Pam is dedicated to preserving and teaching the traditional ways of her people. She does this through painting, poetry, stories, song and dance.