• Material: Argillite
• Measurements: W8 1/4" X L3 1/2 X H3 1/4" / W21cm X L8.9cm X H8.3cm 
• Artist: Gary Minaker Russ
• Styles: Canadian First Nations
• Categories: Sculptures

Wasco

Wasco is a sea wolf, a mythological being which appears in Haida legend mixing elements of both whale and wolf. It is said, wolves who were hunting whales in the ocean were caught in a fog and could not find their way back to shore. They decided to remain at sea and became Wasco’s. As they are both wolves and whales they represent strong family ties, community, teamwork and strength.

Killer Whale

Killer Whales or Orcas symbolize love of all types, representing romance, loyalty and close ties between family and friends. It offers protection to travelers far from home, helping to guide your journey back. In myth the Orca is closely linked to humans; it is said that those lost at sea are transformed into these whales and have gone to live in a underwater village. Seen as the guardian of the ocean, the Orca is a strong spirit, which symbolizes longevity, resiliency and knowing that you are not alone.

Gary Minaker Russ / Masset, Haida Gwaii

Born to the Eagle Clan on Haida Gwaii, Gary Minaker-Russ takes the Beaver, Sculpin, Frog and Black Whale as his crests.  Gary began carving in 1977, studying under his brother and sister-in-law, Ed and Faye Russ, for a number of years while learning the stories, forms and techniques essential to his craft.  He specializes in argillite carving, creating, poles, sculptures, boxes, bowls, and jewelry.  Gary Russ is currently one of the foremost carvers of argillite at the present time. He has developed a distinctive carving style and is renowned for his imaginative and powerful interpretations of the ancient Haida legends.  His work has been exhibited at the Canadian Museum of Civilization, Ottawa, and the BC Provincial Museum. In 2008, Gary was one of fourteen argillite carvers featured in Carol Sheehan’s book Breathing Stone.