Totem Kwakiutl

Things to do at the Parc Public Art

Henry and Tony Hunt's work was sculpted from a single red cedar trunk from British Columbia, the ancestral home of the Kwakiutl communities (also known under the name Kwakwaka'wakw).

The totem, which stands more than 20 metres high, is comprised of six mythological figures symbolizing the union between the various Kwakiutl tribes.

The totem's mast is the last vestige of the Indians of Canada Pavilion at Expo 67, the world's fair in Montréal. It was restored in the summer of 2007 by the sculptor's family members in accordance with contemporary Kwakiutl values.

The six mythological figures of the totem, from top to bottom:

  • Gwa'wis (Sea Crow)
  • Gila (Grizzly Bear and Salmon)
  • Sisiutl (Two-headed Snake)
  • Makhinukhw (Killer Whale with Seal in Its Mouth)
  • Tsawi (Beaver)
  • Numas (Old Man)

Details

Materials Wood
Dimensions 2130 x 95 cm

Learn more: Bureau d'Art Public de la Ville de Montréal

Schedule

Monday, December 8, 2025

Today: accessible
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Rates

Free

Learn more

To obtain more details concerning Public Art or for any request for information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Mobility

Getting to the artwork

Here is the exact location of the artwork at Parc Jean-Drapeau, marked on the map to make getting there easier.

Get directions to the location:

Whether you're coming by subway, bike, car, or even on foot, explore all the ways to get to the Parc.

Nearby parking: P1, P2, P5


© Société du parc Jean-Drapeau