Ceramics
Totem project

This investigation into the Art of the Haida culture of the North-West American/Canadian Indian tribes will culminate with a finished ceramic Totem. This project begins with observational drawings of animals and a study of totem poles in order to appreciate how the Haida people view the world. Then several plans must be made and developed in order to proceed with the ceramic project.

​Assessment

  1. Present a research board/fact file on A3 paper about Native American Totem Poles. Minimum time required is 3 hours.
  2. Make a 3D model of a Totem Pole out of any material. Minimum time required is also 3 hours.

ILA - Independent Learning Activities

  • 5 facts on Totem Poles - how are they made, what do they represent, types of totem poles, etc.
  • Visit museums that have totem poles on display
  • Explore different ways of creating Haida patterns which could be added to your finished 3D totem pole.
  • Search 'totem poles' on YouTube. See some of the videos below to learn more and see how they are made.
  • Explore the websites we have linked below, and research more of your own information.
Siiren is a fairtrade gift company based in Devon. They import hand crafted products from around the world. Read more about the artist who makes totem poles here.
The Totem Poles in this bottom left picture were once on display at the British Museum. Click the photo to find out more.

Saxman Totem Village

This Totem Pole (right) was a gift from the people of Canada to HM The Queen in June, 1958. Click the image to read more about it.

Exemplar pieces