‘Jaws’, the new black lab of Coast Salish Artist Darren Joseph, sits and watches us in the distance as we discuss the Memorial Pole that is in progress for the Klahoose First Nation.

Darren, and his soon-to-be wife Robbi Wilson, share a home near Powell River at the Sliammon First Nation community. This is the location of the preliminary work of the memorial Pole. The large carved pole will eventually be permanently located in the Klahoose Traditional Territory on IR# 1 in Toba Inlet.

The red cedar pole, handpicked by Darren in the Toba Valley, sits in the make shift carving shed to the right of the couple’s home. The aroma of the fresh cut wood fills the air as we discuss the work that has been accomplished.

I asked Darren how he felt about working on the project. “When Klahoose band member Benny Lessard first mentioned to me about his spiritual experiences in the Toba Valley, I knew it was my duty to focus in on doing a good job. If I don’t pour blood, sweat and tears into the project every day, it will reflect in the success of the pole.”

Benny Lessard has been helping organize this project and works closely with Darren and the Klahoose community.
“It is a really great feeling and I am honored that the project came my way. It gives us something to be proud of.” said Benny.

The memorial pole project was started by a handful of Klahoose members who felt the need to recognize the people who had passed away while working on the Toba Run-of-River hydro project. Norman Harry was at the fore front of the initial discussions as was Bill Barnes. Chief Ken Brown and the Klahoose council members agreed that this was an important project to complete.

As the pole nears completion, the remaining month of work will be completed up in the Toba Valley where the log originated from. A ceremony is being planned for the raising of the pole in May, 2010.

About Darren Joseph

Darren Joseph is a Coast Salish Native from the Squamish Nation. Darren grew up in North Vancouver, and now resides in Powell River, British Columbia. His ancestral name is Shmoqwilum, which he received when he was 17 years old.
Darren began sketching and carving as a hobby, at the young age of 7. Darren has always been surrounded by Native art and culture throughout his life. His lifestyle is strongly based on his traditional values and beliefs that he was brought up with, and taught by his family and respected elders.
In 2003 Darren chose carving as a full time career. He has been guided and apprenticed with well known carvers from Squamish, Northern Tutchone, and Haida. In addition to his numerous masks, Darren worked on a totem pole in 2004 and has also worked on 5 ocean going canoes.
Darren Joseph artwork specializes in carving masks in red and yellow cedar as well as alder. There are three different types of masks that he produces: Moon Masks, Portrait Masks, and Animal Kingdom Masks. Darren also carves panels, totem poles and ocean going canoes and creates artwork that is of the highest quality, and deals with galleries around the world. His careful attention to detail is demonstrated in each piece of his work and Darren enjoys challenging himself to use different techniques. He is committed to carrying out his work in a responsible manner that reflects his teachings. Darren’s shares the stories and legends of First Nation peoples through his work. His intention is to keep Aboriginal culture alive through his artwork.

For more information see Darren's web site:
http://www.darrenjosepharts.com