Coming out of the temporary exhibit brings us to one level up from the Grand Hall. Looking up, I took in this view of Morning Star.
This massive mural is by the Dene artist Alex Janvier, full of Indigenous symbolism. It covers one dome high over the hall, and is my favourite work of art in the national capital region. Down below, seats are placed for the visitor to gaze up at the painting.
Here we have Spirit Of Haida Gwaii, the plaster version of the sculpture by Haida artist Bill Reid. Two other versions, in bronze, reside at the Canadian embassy in Washington, and at the airport in Vancouver.
The Grand Hall is filled with totem poles and the facades of Pacific Coast houses. It is a wonderful place to spend time in the Museum of History.
Just outside in the reflecting pool sits this sculpture by Mary Anne Barkhouse. Titled 'namaxsala (To Travel In A Boat Together), it is drawn from a story told by her grandfather of providing a wolf safe passage across treacherous waters.
I spent time among the totems. While I didn't want to attend the permanent galleries on this visit, no trip to this museum is complete without a stop in here.
It strikes me every time how enormous those totems are.
ReplyDeleteThese are big.
Delete...if I ever get back to Ottawa, I need to see this in person.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely.
DeleteFascinating series.
ReplyDeleteThat it is.
DeleteWonderful, William.
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteDelightful art!
ReplyDeleteI think so.
DeleteI love Indigenous art especially with the stories behind the symbols.
ReplyDeleteMe too.
DeleteThat is a wonderful mural painted inside that dome. I like your detailed photography.
ReplyDeleteThanks.
DeleteLove this museum ~ the wolf in the boat, morning star and indigenous art ~~ Hugs ^_^
ReplyDeleteIt is a great museum.
DeleteI just love this museum, the totems and sculptures and the mural on the ceiling. All lovely. Take care, have a great day!
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteComparing the people to the totems gives a good idea of how large they are.
ReplyDeleteTrue.
DeleteSone impressive works of art here.
ReplyDeleteIndeed.
DeleteThe grand hall is grand indeed! Dramatic architecture.
ReplyDeleteIt stands out.
Delete