The Transformation In Life totem pole was carved in 1987 by Harvey Alphonse and Nelson Canute of the Cowichan Tribes. It stands 3.9m (12’11”) in height and is placed in Charles Hoey Park on Canada Avenue near the Station Street intersection.
Harvey Alphonse describes the meaning of this pole as:
“The pole depicts a transformation in life. The bottom figure signifies a Man on a vision quest. During this rite, an Eagle carries him away. When he returns as a young person, the Eagle with the wings wrapped around him represents his Guardian Spirit. His life starts like a rebirth, or as some people state, a second chance to change his ways. The Eagle represents wisdom, great vision and healing.”
The Eagle Guardian figure was carved by Nelson Canute. With its wings wrapped around the Man, it represents the Man’s Guardian Spirit.
In the words of carver Harvey Alphonse, “the Eagle represents wisdom, great vision and healing.”
In the words of carver Harvey Alphonse, the bottom figure on this pole “signifies a Man on a vision quest.”