Dene artist Chris Turo has become very interested in creating very colourful ceremonial paddles. Paddles play such a large role in the culture of Indigenous peoples across Canada, in that canoes, kayaks, oceans, lakes and rivers are an integral part of their history and indeed of their present way of life, whether for ceremonial or “applied” use. This paddle, of red cedar, is a beautiful and complex work of art. There are a series of creatures represented. As with totem poles, the segments of the paddle have their own creatures, their own relationships to each other. The blade represents the orca, the ‘killer whale.” It is nearly doubled in a massive breach, with the sharp teeth on the lower left, the dorsal fin upright, and the flukes down the right edge. The upper end of the shaft has the four pads and claws of the wolf, another predator high on the food chain and an inhabitant of the coastal forests visited by the whales in their search for salmon. There is a white feather along the upper end of the shaft and at its head the grip is a “diptych” of eagles. Chris Turo has created a beautiful, fascinating carving. It is red cedar, unstained, with coloured elements of acrylic paints. It has leather thongs on the back that allow for it to be hung either vertically or horizontally – to fit the needs and tastes of its new owner. Length: 29”, width 4 ½ “, thickness 3/8”. Weight: 222 grams.