The Three Watchmen is a triple totem pole, consisting of one 50-foot totem and two 30-foot totems alongside it, and erected in 1984 in the Maclean Hunter Building, Toronto. The piece reflects the artist’s deep personal commitment to innovative art, and to the evolving culture of the Haida people.
Explore
The Three Watchmen
- Wood
- 1984
- 777 Bay Street, Toronto
About the artwork
About the artist
Davidson’s passion to revive and perpetuate a variety of forms of Haida cultural expression, including song, dance and ceremony, has fueled his remarkable output throughout the years. When he was just 22 years old, he was responsible among other things for carving and raising the first totem pole in his hometown of Massett in nearly 90 years. His inspiration was to give his elders a chance to celebrate culture in a way they had not been able to in their lifetimes.
Fun facts
- A master carver, printmaker and jeweller, Davidson is great-grandson and heir to the legacy of Charles Edenshaw, a prominent Haida artist from the 19th century.
Engagement questions
- How can Toronto improve the visibility of its cultural diversity through public art?
- Do you think the city needs to increase commissions for First Nations artists?
