When referenced, Totems are often misunderstood. In a study of the organization of placement, and the meaning of each item in a Totems, the base is often the unit with the highest honor and is held in the most regard as they are carved by the masters. The totality of the totem is emblematic of strength in unity and family. Each unit is separate, and autonomous, but empowered and supported by one another. This familial pole is representative of our children. A portion symbolizes a child we lost, who resides in the clouds. For her, a portion memorializes her. Color is important and representative of aspects of life, and the world around us. Blue is in the sky and water. Red is the life source of our blood. Yellow or Gold is the heat and power of the sun that helps grow our food and keep our bodies warm and healthy.

I have walked through beautiful forests and fields in Alaska filled with Totems. I have a deep respect for the carvers of these beautiful works. This is my small reference to the incredible, strong, and time-sensitive work with the hope that the stitches that hold this totem in place will secure each piece of my Totem, independent and autonomous, but important. Just as my children all are. My hope is that they will be seen, as I have seen the gorgeous Totems in forests and fields, and I have thought of the family members who were loved by their carvers.

I know that one day, like the tall, strong Totems of Juno, these will be gone. They will have been seen. Someone will know that my children were loved.

Totem of Hearts
Jen Haefeli
Watercolor & Ink on Canvas
2023
2” x 2”

Sources:

https://www.woot.com/blog/post/the-debunker-is-it-bad-to-be-the-low-man-on-the-totem-pole#:~:text=A "low man on the,, well, ladder analogy).

https://www.thefrickpittsburgh.org/Exhibition-The-Red-Dress

https://reddressembroidery.com/Embroiderers