awx’sin Yexwulla / Poolxtun (Aaron Nelson-Moody), assisted by Bansht (Delmar Williams) and  Westa7 (Todd Edmonds)

Whistler exists within the traditional territory of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations. The Welcome Figure is part of their culture and was carved by artists from both First Nations. The sculpture features iconic elements or references, such as cedar, salmon and copper (symbols of life, abundance and wealth).

The sculpture was completed at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre at Lorimer Road and Blackcomb Way in Upper Village. In this case, the artists involved SLCC Aboriginal Youth Ambassadors and guests in the process and in some of the carving. Carving periodically takes place on the grounds of the SLCC.

The municipality commissioned this piece and the Lightning Figure exhibited at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Other welcome figures, of different types, were commissioned for the Olympic / Paralympic Games venues by the Organizing Committee of the 2010 Winter Games.

Public art nearby:

• 121 Totem south along Stroll to Mountain Square
• 123 Rec-Line west along the Stroll to Village Square