In this special episode of The Whistler Podcast, Mayor Jack Crompton hands the mic over to Jeremy West. Jeremy is a member of the Squamish Nation, a Cultural Ambassador at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, as well as an Assistant Curator and Sound Engineer.
He recorded this interview last year with Master Carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) and Apprentice Brandon Hall, also of the Squamish Nation.
Xwalacktun and Brandon came together to carve last summer, working on a house post commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Squamish Nation’s Amalgamation. It’s a stunning and meaningful piece of work, incorporating designs that honour the sixteen villages who came together to form what is known today as the Squamish Nation.
In their interview with Jeremy, they discuss their work on the housepost, their journeys in carving, the reclamation of Indigenous arts and culture, the power of mentorship, and the deep connection between art and heritage.
Listen now:
Host: Jeremy West
Guest: Master Carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) and Apprentice Brandon Hall
Links/More Information
Acknowledgements
The Resort Municipality of Whistler is grateful to be on the shared, unceded territory of the Lil’wat People, known in their language as L̓il̓wat7úl, and the Squamish People, known in their language as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh. We respect and commit to a deep consideration of their history, culture, stewardship and voice.
This podcast was recorded in the Sound Booth at the Whistler Public Library’s Wonder Lab.
Jeremy West. Photo courtesy of the SLCC.
Master Carver Xwalacktun, in his element. Photo: Logan Swayze
Photo: Logan Swayze
The first of the two sister poles, carved and raised to honour the 100th year of the Squamish Nation Amalgamation. Photo: Logan Swayze
