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ROY HENRY VICKERS
" A LOT OF BULL "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
15" x 23"
Email-price
It was one of those magical days on the west coast. We were fishing
out of King Pacific Lodge in Whale Channel. I listened to legends
of the territories some fifty years earlier and now was fishing the
same area retelling the stories to my friends. The fishing was great
with a light northwest breeze and lots of sun. The day began with
a display of aerobatics from over a dozen eagles who were diving
on a school of bait on the sea's surface. We then saw a group of
orca that numbered around one hundred and fifty. I had only
observed this phenomenon once in my youth in the same general
area and had just told that very story when this large group of
killer whales came by to thrill us. As it turns out, we witnessed
a number of groups or pods coming together, something which
is rarely witnessed.
Near the end of the day we set a course for the lodge and came
across a humpback whale calf that gave us a display of breaching
and splashing about. My friend Ray's comment was that we had
seen just about everything we could for one day. We resumed our course for the lodge leaving the humpback behind when we came
upon a group of sea lions. The cows reacted to our presence by jumping into the ocean but the bulls were content to sit as kings of
their castle and watch us watching them. I could not help but
comment, "Now that's a lot of bull'. I am glad for friends who
put up with my puns.
We ended the day enjoying a wonderful meal at the lodge and told
lots of stories that reflected on the awe and wonder of a summer
day on the wild west coast of British Columbia. With the passing
of another Thanksgiving holiday I can say I am thankful for a life
full of gifts and beauty and many awesome experiences that
come to those who love being out on the land and sea.
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" A NEW HEARTBEAT "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
13" Diameter
Email-price
A new heartbeat is truly a miracle. There have been many thoughts
and inspirations which have come as a result of being privileged
to be part of another precious life coming into this world.A child
is born as a ray of pure light from the creator of all things.
Among our people there is a dance called Kaxala which means
uplifting or holding them up, this is done by the Chiefs as they
hold the new born children. This is a dance to honour the little
ones, as a public commitment to the children.
It is our modeling of life that determines how a child will grow
up. It is our journey on the road of life that gives direction to
those who follow us.
The feet follow the red road, the road of love, light, strength,
and truth.
The hands are the hands of healing that lift the little ones up.
The color green is for our Mother Earth, where our medicines
come from.Blue is for the water which is part of us all.
Yellow is the light that all children bring to this world.
A NEW HEARTBEAT is dedicated to Wakas Henry
Tillman Vickers.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" BACK TO THE LAND "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
19" x 28.5"
Email-price
This has been three years in the making, it's about going back
to the land as a people. The closer we are to the earth the more
respect we have, the more respect the more we will fight to protect.
The old ways of our people are more valuable today than the ever
were. The ancient laws transcend culture, language, money,
education, and all the things we have come to think are important.
We are a people lost on the land of our ancestors yet the directions
for a way out are all around us. It's time to give value to what
is and always will be the truth of the land.
Black Elk, the Oglala Sioux holy man told us, Chief Seattle has
spoken this truth to the world. The ancient laws are based on
truth and truth is freedom to be as we have always been
called to be.
It is time for those with the voice to shake the mountains,
to shout, to sing the old songs from the land.
It is time for we whose names come from the land to embody
our names. It is time for those who carry the truth to bring it to
those who will listen and there are many.
Our young people are lost with no hope and we look for
answers in sustainable jobs, and education, yet it is a move back
to the land that will move us from survival to passion for life and
all that it has for us.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" BEAVER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
23" x 14.5"
Email-price
The beaver an animal identified with Canada and has been on
the Canadian nickel for as long as I can remember. My fascination
with the beaver however, goes back to my childhood and my Grandfather Henry Vickers who was a trapper and one of his
many stories comes to mind.He was invited by a friend from the northern interior of B.C. to go on a trapping expedition. He lived
on the coast so a trip inland was a welcome change so he went.
They walked for many miles along a river and headed up a
tributary creek on the last leg of the long trek into his friends cabin. They stopped to rest and have a late lunch and both fell asleep. Grandpa slept leaning against a giant cedar tree and had a troublesome dream that told him the rain would come and the
creek would flood. When they awoke it was raining and his friend
told him they should make camp right where they were. Grandpa
told him it wasn't a good idea, that they should move to higher
ground because the creek was going to flood. His friend said
that this was his territory and he knew better than my grandpa
who was from the coast. That night they were awakened by the
creek flooding and scrambled to put their packs and gear together
to get to higher ground. He always finished that story by saying,
Pretty funny hey grandson, you know, my friend Pete listened
to my advice after that.Thanks Grandpa for your many
stories and teachings.
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" BACK TO THE MOUNTAIN "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
s/n Serigraph
25.5" x 19.5"
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I and my beautiful family moved back to Hazelton in the spring
of 2004. It has been a treat to wake up each morning on the banks
of the Skeena River among the birch and cottonwood trees. This
land of the Skeena is known as the land of the totems. Each totem
is a story and represents thousands of years of history. The
culture of the people here is full of stories that are handed down
from the ancestors. The stories all tell of a connection to the
land of values that have sustained people for thousands of years.
It was more than 20 years ago that I created a series of limited
edition prints with the totems as their theme. One of those prints
was called Look To The Mountain and I have been thinking of
going back to that scene and taking another look, something
I call re-specting.
What I have come to realize is that we need to get back to the
land, to ground ourselves as a people. We have been separated
from the land in the aftermath of abuse from the residential
schools as well as the onslaught of technology. The suicide
rate has increased to an alarming rate and people are detached
from each other. It is time for a spiritual awakening a returning
to the core values that work as well today as they ever have.
This work called, Back To The Mountain, is a call to return to the
land, to ground ourselves in mother earth. To walk in the
strength, truth, and, beauty of who we are.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" BULKLEY RIVER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
15" x 12"
Email-price
I have been an avid angler now for six years and realize that
I will never be able to fish all the rivers in our beautiful country
that I would like to fish.
I am excited, however, by the thought that I could fish a different
stream or river every year for the rest of my life!
I have visited the Bulkley River many times; it is only a few hours
hike from my childhood home near Hazelton in Northern British Columbia.
It was a thrill to return as an adult and to cast a line into those
muddy waters, hoping for a strike from the greatest of all sport
fish, the mighty steelhead, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
This rendition of the river is the result - a natural outpouring
of my feelings, of the spiritual uplifting that I experience when
I enjoy a river such as Bulkley.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" BEAR MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
8" x 28"
Email-price
This past June we had some friendly and curious bears visiting
our yard.
The first was a big grizzly who showed up in the same spot that the
one visited last year, leading me to believe it was the same one
that had grown considerably.
Throughout the year we have had a sow and two cubs that grew
up in the same area and became a little too familiar.
Concerned over the safety of my family, I finally took to scaring
them off with loud bear bangers, kind of like a firecracker.
Now the snow has come they are all gone to sleep for the winter.
The full moon in June this past summer will always be known
to us as the BEAR MOON
Roy Henry Vickers
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" BULLHEAD "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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The day began with a beautiful late spring sunrise with colours
of yellow, orange, and blue in the eastern sky. As I watched the
day begin my two sons awoke and were excited to get out on
the beach. I explained to them that later in the morning the tide
was going to come back in and the waters should be warmed by
the hot sand.
Later that day we found ourselves walking on the warm sand out
to the incoming tide. As we neared the water we could actually
see the water moving slowly over the sand so we took our shoes
and socks off and tested the water to find to our delight that it was warm. I ran back to a high area of the beach to put our shoes down
and returned to find the boys chasing after tiny bullhead that were coming in with the tide.
We spent the remainder of the morning playing in the ocean
as it continued it's march toward the highwater line near the
house. We dug clams, searched for sand dollars and chased
bullhead until lunch time.After the experience I realized that the
moon in May is called the Bullhead Moon amoung the Coast Salish
and this gave me a whole new perspective on the full moon in
the month of May.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" CALM WATERS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
11.5" x 16.5"
Email-price
After fifteen years of living in Tofino I've returned to Victoria
where I grew up and began my career as an artist. These days I
return to my gallery in Tofino as a tourist and stay in Hotels and
Motels. This has been rewarding in many ways. I experience the company of others travelling to one of the world's most beautiful destination spots. I enjoy the hospitality of places like, Cable Cove
Inn, Ocean Village, Pacific Sands, Tofino Motel, Wickaninnish Inn,
and others in the future.Calm Waters comes from a recent visit to Ocean Village in March 2000. While staying and enjoying the
company of Moe and Maureen and the staff at Ocean Village I experienced the beauty of our Pacific sunsets. I noticed some of the photos Moe had taken and was inspired to take some of my own pictures. Towards the end of my stay at Ocean Village Moe showed
me a beautiful photo of a sunset on the beach. The colours of yellow, orange, lavender, and gray are predominant as well as the charcoal silhouettes of people on the beach. It took a moment for me to realize that the man talking to a couple on the beach was me. I remembered
the conversation I was having with a man and wife who had been
in my gallery that very day.I was so moved by the photo it became
the subject for this work entitled, Calm Waters. Thank you Moe. So
it is that the scene captures where I am on my journey these days, enjoying visits with others who share the love of the West Coast.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" CARIBOO COUNTRY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
19" x 27"
Email-price
I grew up in Hazelton, B.C. dreaming of the Wiliams Lake Stampede.
I worked for a man, Al Benson who had thoroughbred race horses.
It was my job to exercise and train them on our home made track
in Two Mile, just two miles out of Hazelton. I started riding when
the snow left the ground n April and our first big event was the
Williams Lake Stampede held on the July first weekend each year.
I loved the parade with Cowboys and Cariboo Indians in their
finest costumes. The Indians always set up their teepees on the
hill above the rodeo grounds, it was a beautiful sight to see. I rode
my first steer in that stampede.
I know those years of horses and ranches helped to form the artist
and man that I am today. As I grew older I always had this dream
of owning a ranch and some horses. A number of years ago I
returned to Hazelton and am living that dream today. I love the
life I live on the banks of the Skeena River with my family and the horses.
I travel a number of times through the year to Vancouver
Island and Tofino. Often on the journey south I stop at friends who
live in the Cariboo. The Macham's have the Stellar Red Angus
Ranch near Quesnel, B.C.
I've enjoyed many a visit and story at the Macham's and I always
walk over to the wall in the kitchen and admire a beautiful framed photograph of cowboys working cattle in the cool of a summer
evening. Well the time has finally come to work from the inspiration
of the Caroboo and it's people.
So I'm thankful to the Macham's
for their warm home and hospitality and the inspiration behind, Cariboo Cowboy. Roy Henry Vickers
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" COX BAY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
26" x 9"
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Today thousands make the journey to Tofino on the west coast
of Vancouver Island to enjoy sand, surf and relaxation. Last
October I made the trip with both my sons and we enjoyed a
two night stay on the beautiful Cox Bay.
My son William turned into an inspired photographer and took
many photographs during our visit showing a keen eye and love
of the coastal area where he was born.I now live in northern
British Columbia but enjoy many visits to
Tofino and Eagle Aerie Gallery visiting with friends and enjoying
this paradise on Canada's west coast.
I will always make the trek to this magical place to play with
friends and admire the west coast people whose strength and
endurance that has made this their home for thousands of years.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" CLAM MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
Email-price
To the people of the land and the sea, the moons indicate the
season and its mostly a season to harvest.
In my home village of Kitkatla B.C., the moon in November is
the Clam Moon.
Images of rain, sleet, and snow, low tides, gas lamps, and gunny
sacks fade in and out of memory.
Shadowy figures dancing on the beach from the flickering flames
of gas lamps. Finally the boats slip through the night on their
return from distant beaches.
Once again we celebrate with a feast of hot clam chowder made
with fresh clams during the time of the ‘Clam Moon'.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" DAYBREAK SET "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
20" x 24"
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In 1979, my two partners and I bought a gillnet fishing boat
called Native Bride from my uncle, Clarence Vickers, in Port
Edward. My responsibility in the partnership, was to be the
working partner and fish Native Bride for the summer of 1979.
I returned to the seas of my childhood and fished with my Uncles
and other men from Kitkatla. It was a wonderful experience for
me to return to ancient fishing grounds with the Native Bride.
One of my first trips was to the Principle Channel and Mink
Trap, a traditional area of fishing for the Kitkatla people. This
view of the Native Bride is from my dinghy at five o'clock in
the morning.
The sun has yet to rise, but dawn has come to the coast and the
salmon moon is bidding farewell for the day.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" EAGLE FULL CIRCLE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
80 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
Email-price
The eagle is my family crest and this particular creation
represents
the full circle that I have come in my development
as a Northwest
Coast Peoples. The title of this crest is
Eagle--Full Circle.
It
is dedicated to the man, Wilson Duff, whose influence was
and
still is important in my life.
The image Eagle--Full Circle is published in the book,
The
World is as Sharp as a Knife, an anthology in honour
of Wilson Duff.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" DISCOVERY PASSAGE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
200 s/n Serigraph
13.5" x 9"
Email-price
Discovery Passage is the name of a section of the beautiful
waters around Campbell River B.C. During the summer of 1997,
I participated in a canoe journey of about 1700 kilometers from Hazelton on the Skeena River to the Pacific ocean and then down
the coast to Victoria. That story has been told in a number of other
past works that include, Many Hands, Kitasoo Dawn, and
Nunsulsailus. I have enjoyed the friendship of Phil Barker since the
mid 1960's where we produced my first silkscreened prints together
in art class at Oak Bay High School. Since those early days Phil
and I have stayed friends and have enjoyed a relationship of artist
and student. We also share a love of the outdoors and the ocean.
This creation began in Phil's mind and culminated in bringing us together as co-producers of this limited edition hand pulled
silkscreened print titled, Discovery Passage. This print is dedicated
to our mothers who no longer live in this world except in the
memories of all who loved them.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" EAGLE ROCK "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
s/n Serigraph
24" x 21.175"
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This work was inspired by a trip to my village of Kitkatla.
I was welcomed home as a hero and a chief. It was a humbling
and inspiring time for me.
I visited a rock we called Eagle Rock when I was a child. As an
adult, I found the return to bring out the child in me.
Memories of the village and how it used to be, flooded my mind.
I thought of the blessing of life on this earth and will always be
thankful for time spent on Eagle Rock.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" EAGLE DANCER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
5 s/n Serigraph
27" x 21"Diameter
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Roy Henry Vickers
|
" ELDER MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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Amoung the Heiltsuk people of Bella Bella, the moon in
January is called the Elder Moon. This name for the moon in the
middle of winter can be found in other cultures as well. In the
shamanic tradition the winter is the time of the elder, we hear
the saying, 'the winter of their years' when referring to the elders.
The color of winter is white and so is the hair of the old ones.
When those relatives have passed through the winter they leave
this world and become ancestors on the other side. In our language
we have a saying when one is walking in the truth, beauty, and,
strength of themselves; it is said that they are walking on the breath
of the ancestors. The element of winter is air, 'the breath of ancestors'.These are a few of the thoughts that came as I created
this rendition of THE ELDER MOON.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" FIVE FINNED KILLER WHALE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 20"
Email-price
We know that this legend comes down through the mists of time
and
has been told from generation to generation in story, song,
and dance. This legend has it's origin with the Owikeeno people
from a place we know as KIDEET, this village today is called Owikeeno and is situated at the head of Rivers Inlet.
This is the birthplace of my Chieftainship, Tlagwigila more
commonly spelled, Tlakwakila which means Copperman. Tlakwakila
is from the house of WAKAS and my adopted family, the Walkus
family carry their original name as a family name to this day.
Walkus is one of the few names that survived the census takers
who were given power by the governmental to change peoples
names in the event that the names were too hard to spell in English.
So this is the background for the story which tells of four whales
who were hunting up in the inlet known as Wanuk when a large landslide took place. One of the whale hunters was trapped by the slide which formed what is known as Qausas Wanukv or Owikeeno Lake. The dead whales body formed an island with it's head facing towards the inlet. This island known as Smokehouse Island today is where the five houses originated from Newakawa. The sons of Newakawa are, my brother, Haitlamas, the healer, the next brother
is Newmas Kas, then came, Ookwaliis, and, Tsigsiwallace. The
four sons make up four of the five fins, the fifth fin being the fin of the whale itself.
There is a well known design done in many variations by artists throughout the generations which shows the five finned whale
holding up the roof of a house from which came all the families
and descendants who live today. This story of the five finned whale
will stand through the ages as testimony to the origins of the people
we know today as the Owikeeno.
This story was related to me by Hemas Newakawa otherwise known
as Evelyn Windsor, my aunt.Thank you to my brother, Ted Walkus,
who inspired me to put this down on paper.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" FROG DRUM "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
20" x 20"
Email-price
This work was inspired by a trip to my village of Kitkatla.
I was welcomed home as a hero and a chief. It was a humbling
and Frog Drum This Frog Drum is the first of a series of thirteen
drum designs that are also the names of the moons from different coastal nations.I have chosen the frog to begin this series for
a number of reasons. This design has been with me for about eight years and has been waiting for the others to be completed.
The time has gone by quickly and I have decided to release the
first ones before I know what the others are going to be. This
past February I completed my third traditional fast and have
made a commitment to be a Sweat Lodge leader.
When I came out of my fast it was near the end of February
and the frogs came out after the winter months and began
their singing all over the Saanich peninsula. I was reminded
that the moon in February is called the frog moon among the
Tsartlip people. So with the moon in March the frogs come
out to sing, heralding the coming of spring.inspiring time for me.
I visited a rock we called Eagle Rock when I was a child. As
an adult, I found the return to bring out the child in me. Memories
of the village and how it used to be, flooded my mind.
I thought of the blessing of life on this earth and will always
be thankful for time spent on Eagle Rock.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" GISGAAST "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
5.5" x 20"
Email-price
I was adopted into the Fireweed/Whale clan to the House of
Qeel
by the head chief in Kispiox, B.C.
The man who adopted me was the late Walter Harris, one
of my mentors and teachers in the art world. Walter was also
a holder of the Order of Canada, the highest civilian order
for his lifetime contribution to Canadian art.
During the adoption ceremony I was given a Gisgaast name,
Skun Wihaast, which translated to Big Fireweed Plant.
This really brings me to another full circle as I have moved back
to the north country not far from Greenville, where I was born,
and my birth name was Wihaast, meaning Bigfireweed in the
Nisgaa language.
I live near the village of Kispiox and I am currently
working
in Walter's old studio.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" GOING TO THE POTLATCH "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
20.75" x 28.5"
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The landfall in this image is Friendly Cove on the West Coast
of Vancouver Island. The lowlands of Hesquiat Peninsula are
in the background. The season is Winter, a time of feasting and
potlatch on the Northwest Coast. I dream of what it must have
been like for the Northern Chiefs to be invited to attend a
ceremony so far from home.
In this case, the occupants of the canoe are attending an
important celebration on the West Coast of Vancouver Island
and have travelled from the Tsimshian or Haida Nations as
indicated by the style of dress and the shape of the canoe.
The Chief who has extended the invite must be important,
because this canoe travelled hundreds of miles of
difficult Coastline.
Such was the way of life on the Coast. Some things were
most necessary, and all the hardships were endured because
you were going to the Potlatch.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" GOOD HOPE 4 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
80 s/n Serigraph
19" x 28"
Email-price
Teds Boat, what a place to be! When you are in the pack and
everyone is jockeying for position, you can witness the respect that others have for the man. When I fished with my boys in a U Drive
we could slip virtually unknown through the group of boats yet you could still hear the respect for Ted on the radio. I'm proud to be connected to Ted.
There was one magical morning for us all at Good Hope Cannery
in 2009. We were on the water at 06:00, happy with a good
breakfast under our belt and thermoses of coffee and sandwiches
in the boat. As we came around a point and headed up the inlet
I was struck with the wonder and beauty of it all. The sky was
beginning to show gold and blue heralding the coming of the sun.
The inlet was calm with the hills pointing the way to Marker 16 at the head of Rivers Inlet and we all dreamed of the big spring salmon waiting for us there. As I was filled with the joy of it all,
I saw the bow rail of the boat with the fishing rods and net and
they were pointing the way. It was an incredible fishing day and
we had yet to begin fishing on Ted's Boat.
My thanks to Tony and the Allard family and the kind and
thoughtful staff at Good Hope Cannery. Ted and Dwayne Walkus,
you add that special gift from our ancestors at Wuikinux in
Rivers Inlet.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE GREAT ESCAPE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
9" x 16"
Email-price
I love canoes and I love fishing; they go together well.
Every year I spend time in the outdoors enjoying the song
my paddle sings.
While sitting at home or in my studio, I often return to those
quiet places in my mind.
I enjoy meeting many people, and I love creative,
quiet times.
Often I heed the call of mountain, land and sea and return
to the wilderness to recharge, rejuvenate and to allow
Mother Nature to soothe my soul in a Great Escape.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" GOOLKA "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
80 s/n Serigraph
19" x 28"
Email-price
Goolka is the Tsimshian word for the West wind. A Westerly
always brings blue skies and sun to the people of the
Northwest Coast.
There have been times, however, when a brisk Westerly has
brought concern to the wary mariner.
It is just such a person that this piece is dedicated.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" GROUNDHOG MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
Email-price
In the early days of the Gitksan people on the Skeena River
there was no September. That time of the year was called the
moon of the groundhog. All the moons had names that revealed common occurrences in the life of the people.
In September the groundhogs are fat and ready to hibernate
and so were a common food to the people.On my visits to the
mountains I know that the grizzly bear is getting ready for the
long sleep and is looking for groundhogs.
So the footsteps of human and grizzly lead them in the hunt
for an annual feed of groundhog.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" HAZELTON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
11" x 27.5"
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I walked down the road to the school in Old Hazelton, BC, the sky
was crisp and clear, the cottonwood leaves were turning reddish
gold. Looking to the mountains there were brilliant splashes of yellow among the reds and oranges, the birch and poplar trees added to the beautiful colors of autumn. The new and exciting scent of wood and leaves was so different from the evergreens of the coast where I had spent the first nine years of my life.The year was 1955 and my family had moved to this wondrous place that I have always loved.In 1973 I returned to Hazelton to attend the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art. At this time I rekindled the desire to live on the
Skeena River.I spent two years in Hazelton living and playing with friends in the four distinct seasons.I remembered a visitor who came every year to fish the steelhead in the summer; this man told me that
one day I would realize the incredible beauty of the Skeena Valley.He was so right, the more time went by and the more places I experienced, the more I appreciated the mighty Skeena River and its breathtaking valley.This year, my family and I are moving to a beautiful home on
the river to turn a new page in the book of our lives. We are going to miss the friends and family on Vancouver Island, and enjoy being with friends in the Skeena Valley.
Thanks to a loving and understanding family, I have the chance
to return to this lovely place called, Hazelton.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" HALIBUT "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
19.75" x 27.75
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This past summer I had the privilege of returning to the country known to the world as River’s Inlet. Those of you who have read my book Copperman will know my connection to this beautiful part of the coast. My brother Ted Wakas treated myself and my sons, Gord and William to a fishing trip to Good Hope cannery which is one of the oldest cannery sites left on the west coast with many of the original buildings still standing. My name, Tlakwagila, comes from the House of Wakas at the head of Rivers Inlet and my brother, Ted is the head Chief of the House of Wakas and so this would be a special trip for us all. Ted and brother, Dwayne Wakas are guides at the Good Hope Cannery and Ted had reserved the time to guide myself and my two sons for our entire four days of fishing. The inspiration for this work titled Halibut comes from a once in a lifetime experience. The morning began with a beautiful sunrise as we made our way to the halibut fishing grounds near the mouth of Rivers Inlet. We had planned to spend the day fishing for halibut and so it began with a cruise through the coastal waters where humpback whales put on a show with numerous breaches where they jump clear of the ocean and land with a monstrous splash. So amidst whales, eagles and the ever present sea gulls, we arrived and began jigging for HALIBUT. I sang the song of my grandfather and told some of his stories as we fished. • The first bite came on my rod and before I could start the fight my son William had a hit on his rod. The excitement increased considerably as we realized a double header. As Will and I began the task of bringing our halibut to the surface Ted and Gord coached and remained beside each of us to help. All of a sudden Ted shouted to Gord as his rod began to dance. There we were, Dad and two sons all with halibut on at the same time. Ted stayed calm and figured my halibut was the biggest and would take the longest to bring in so he concentrated on Will and Gord. By the end of it all we had three halibut in the boat and our hearts full of Joy. I’ll never forget that day and can think of it every time as I look at a copy of the silk screened print of HALIBUT hanging on my wall at home. The octopus in the belly of the halibut harkens back to a story I always tell of seeing my first large halibut on the dock with sucker marks all over it from a fight with a large octopus which is the favorite food of halibut. There’s another story I tell of my grandfather, Henry Vickers and his experience of watching a halibut break the surface of the sea with a large octopus as they battled in the ongoing struggle between hunter and prey. There are so many stories and this one I share with you of Halibut, is as exciting for me to tell as any of the great stories I’ve heard. Thank you Ted, and thank you Tony and Good Hope Cannery staff you made this one of the outstanding experiences of my life.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" HENRY'S CORNER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
18.5" x 13"
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I arrived in Tofino in the fall of 1980 after a summer of
commercial fishing. On a visit to a local shop I picked up a
familiar carved alderwood bowl and recognized it as a carving
by a man I had met a year earlier, Henry Nolla.
No more than a minute passed and in walked Henry. After
a few
days of visiting Henry asked me to stay for the winter to
teach him how to carve totems.
For fifteen years from 1980 to 1995 we carved at least twenty
eight totems and completed many other projects such as the
Tofino welcome sign and the Ucluelet Whale sign. Henry and
I carved all the totems in Eagle Aerie Gallery and he adzed
every plank in the gallery single handed.
He also carved the Eagle Aerie house front and helped to
make the gallery the beautiful landmark that it is today. So that
day in September 1980 when I met Henry changed my life and
life in Tofino forever.
Henry is gone now having succumbed to a long battle with
cancer. There are many who miss Henry and carry fond
memories of him. I am so grateful to be his teacher and for
him to be mine.
The new addition to Wickanninish Inn now stands where Henry's
house used to be in what all the locals and thousands know
as Henry's Corner.
I stayed at the Wickaninnish Inn last fall and woke up in the
morning to a scene I was used to looking at from Henry's
front window.
The rain was falling on a rising tide where we spent so many
hours working and laughing and I miss him so.
Henry thank you for all the beautiful memories from
HENRY'S CORNER.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" HUMPBACK "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
13" x 20"
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When I first moved to Tofino back in 1980 I had spent two
years commercial fishing on the coast of B.C. from the west
coast of
Vancouver Island to the Alaska border and sightings
of Humpback whales were rare.
I recall back in the mid 80's
that we had to travel far off
shore in September to see these
beautiful creatures.
Many have raised a world awareness to the plight of the small
numbers of humpback whales left in the world. With much
care and attention to these awesome creatures they have
increased in numbers to the point where they can be seen
within the surf line on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
I have had the incredible experience of fishing near Tofino
with Humpback whales very close to our boat. This experience
can leave one feeling very small and
vulnerable and yet so
very excited. I've also watched the humpbacks breaching
in the summer months near the mouth of Rivers Inlet, another
beautiful area about midcoast not to far from Bella Bella.
It is my desire that many who take the time to get out on the
ocean can enjoy being near one of these Humpback Whales.
If the ocean is just too terrifying to venture out then a good
pair of binoculars or a
spotting scope will allow you to see
one from a good vantage point on shore.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" INDIAN ISLAND "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
14" x 21"
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The summer of 1984 will always hold a special place in my heart
and mind. Tofino and Clayoquot Sound had a very special visitor
that came early in the summer and stayed until September.
Most people called her "Friendly." She was a young grey whale
about 20 feet long. Every day she would come into Grice Bay
with the high tide to feed in the shallow waters beside Indian Island.
Thousands of people came to see her and were thrilled by the sight
of a grey whale at close quarters. We made many trips on our
boat to visit "Friendly," and were always excited, and somewhat
in awe, of such a large creature who allowed us to come within
a few feet from her. Friendly has left our waters to roam over
the oceans, perhaps one day to return.
The Painting, INDIAN ISLAND, was created in the memory
of a very special grey whale.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" INSPIRED "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
18.5" x 13"
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After many years of canoeing in my life and some epic journeys
under my paddle I am grateful to hundreds of people who have
helped me enjoy some fantastic experiences on the west coast
of Canada. Pulling together with family, friends and
acquaintances is part of those incredible memories.
My longest trip in a canoe was 1700 kilometers in twenty nine
days. The coldest dip in the ocean after capsizing with my son,
Gord was in February at -5 degrees celsius.
One year I received a Silver medal of Bravery from the Royal
Life Saving Society for a canoe rescue of some unfortunate
canoeists near Tofino, B.C.
The canoe in this inspiration is a familiar one that can be seen
tied up at the Tofino waterfront. Old westcoasters will be familiar
with the waterfront sunset and the beauty of the west coast canoe
form.The serene moments of twilight on the westcoast echo a
time I've come to in my life when I enjoy more peace and
tranquility than ever before. I am thankful for this life, I live in
one of the most beautiful places, on earth.
Thank you Chris for your inspiration.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" KING PACIFIC LODGE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
11.5" x 30"
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Here is a stunning place of splendid refuge in the southern
territories of the Kitkatla people where the eagle soars and the
salmon swim. The moon in July rises above the mountains of
Princess Royal Island accompanied by Libra, Arcturus, Virgo
and a host of other stars.
I am reminded of our ancestors who gazed on the same moon
and stars as they harvested natures bounty from the sea. Things
have not changed all that much in the natural coastal world, the
eagle still soars and the salmon come back each year. We harvest
cod, halibut, all species of salmon and enjoy the whales return
each summer.
The great change that has come has been the introduction of
the dollar as currency as well as ever increasing technology.
We have been separated from nature and to an ever increasing
degree we look to money and technology and comforts that
they bring. We sit and watch corporations move in to our
ancestral lands to make a good living on what we take for
granted. Some of us resent the intrusion of other businesses
because they are making money from our resources. If we took
another look at these newcomers as teachers, we could follow
their example in using our resources to renew and recreate our
lives. It is possible to harvest the riches of our lands and keep
a respect for them, all we need to do is keep respecting ourselves.
These are a few of the thoughts that came to me as I bathed
in the beauty of King Pacific Lodge on the sea that will always
be home to me. Roy Henry Vickers
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" KOOCANUSA SUNRISE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 20"
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The early morning rises over Koocanusa Lake in the Kootenai
region of British Columbia and reveals nature in all its
spontaneous splendor.
On this morning there was a low-lying fog in the valley and
the sun revealed natures display of yellow gold.
My visit to the Kootenai's this past Fall was greeted by the call
of the Eagle soaring over the lake. I enjoyed the last days of
Summer with friends at the Koocanusa Ranching Company
and bathed in the morning glow of many sunrises over a cup
of coffee before all life, including cattle and horses, headed
for shade in the midday heat.
During the latter part of each day
I enjoyed the chores of
a wrangler.
It is the magic of a sunrise that brings great rewards in
our lives.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" KISPIOX FISHING "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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There is something unexplainable about fishing and the joy it
brings to children and adults from all over the world. Fishing
has been a passion of mine since my earliest memories. Today
the thrill is not diminished in the least.
Fishing the Kispiox River is an experience shared by hundreds
of people from around the world every year. This image of
Kispiox Fishing came from the very special experience of
watching my son, William and nephew, Ollie fishing from a
gravel bar where the Kispiox River flows into the mighty Skeena
River. The sight of another generation
carrying on an ancestral tradition was the inspiration behind this creation.
I remember a time when I went out with a friend to one of his
favorite steel heading spots. I was so excited to get out of Gary's
float plane that I took no notice of what he was doing. After some
time had passed and I had put my rod and tackle together and
made a few casts into a pool of steelhead, I remembered Gary.
I turned to see where he was and there he sat on a log smoking
his pipe with this big grin on his face. I couldn't understand so
asked him why he wasn't fishing. He replied, ‘It's just as much
fun to watch someone else". I never understood that experience
until the day watching my son and his friend doing some
Kispiox Fishing. Roy Henry Vickers
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" KYE BAY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 19.75"
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This weekend for my birthday I was treated to a wonderful
weekend with my two sons at Kye bay, near Comox. I have
visited this place many times and enjoyed sitting on the beach
watching natures finest theatre, but this had to be one of
the most beautiful visits to Beach Grove Resort.
The weather was very warm and the tide would go out a long
way from the high tide line. When the tide began its slow slide
over the sandbar it brought with it hundreds of tiny bullhead,
and much delight to myself and two sons, who tried to catch
some of these fish as they swam between our feet.
The great blue herons often frequent this beach and are
magnificent displays of patient and successful fishing and we
can learn much by watching them. Eventually, our time at
Kye Bay came to an end and we left for home with great
memories. The last evening that inspired this work was filled
with a rich pink and purple sunset.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" LOOK TO THE MOUNTAIN "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
17" x 24"
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The Skeena River valley and its mountains will forever hold
a special place in my heart.
On a recent photographic expedition to the Gitksan Indian
villages which
surround Hazelton, this image came to my mind.
It caused me to recall the first verse of Psalm 121 from the bible...
"I will lift mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help."
Roy Henry Vickers
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" MIDNIGHT RIDER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
15" x 19.75"
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Every year during the late summer, I find myself yearning for the
high country. Mountain time for me is time to get away from the
hustle and bustle of everyday life and a time to return to my roots.
To be in wide open spaces is to rest, recuperate, and take time to
reflect on and appreciate the joy of life in this world and all its
beauty. I love to be on horseback in some remote valley with the
river and the high mountain peaks thrilling all my senses. There
have been times when I've stayed till dusk to watch the sun set and
listen to the elk bugle. This of course, means a ride back to camp
in the dark. It's at a time like this when one really appreciates the
horse, its excellent night vision and its sense of the trail home. I've ridden through dark timber with my Stetson pulled low over my
face to ward off branches, unable to see the trail, yet trusting the
horse to get me back. There've been times when I've gotten into
a little trouble, a cinch coming loose on a pack horse or a spooked horse that needs to be calmed down because a pack has come
undone and the load has fallen to the ground. These are the
memories I treasure and relive around the campfire, or back
home when the trip's over. There are those special memories of
riding out of the shadows and onto a ridge to be bathed in the moonlight. Whatever the experience, I always seem to be part
of the group called the Midnight Riders. Roy Henry Vickers
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" MIDNIGHT FEAST "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
5" x 20"
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When I was a teenager, I used to have my own little trapline;
the local rabbits were my quarry. In those days we lived off the land
to a great degree. Mom had a garden for vegetables; we'd get fish
from the coast every Summer and Dad hunted Moose every Fall.
I did my part by hunting grouse and rabbits.
There were many times I went to check my snares and found
that all that was left was a bit of fur and signs of a struggle. In the
snow were marks left by the wings of an owl; an owl that had
taken my rabbit.
I used to wish that the owl would chase after mice and leave
my rabbits alone. So, Mr. Owl, here is your Midnight Feast.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" MILKY WATERS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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Every year the herring come back to the waters of the northwest
coast to begin their spawning season which awakens the life of
the ocean. The sealions follow the herring and so do all species of salmon. For many thousands of years my ancestors have looked forward to the return of the herring because this meant fresh
herring eggs. From the first sign of herring spawn the people
ready all manner of ways to harvest the eggs. Young trees are
cut and weighted so they are suspended from an anchor at the
ocean floor to hang submerged so the herring will spawn on the branches. The trees are then pulled from the ocean looking like christmas trees covered in white herring eggs. The branches are
cut and taken back to the village to be prepared for eating. Sea
grass is covered with herring eggs and is harvested as well by
divers who brave the ice cold waters. Today the most modern
method is to hang a special kelp from floats, the kelp is eaten
along with the eggs.The excitement begins with the sighting of
Milky Waters, which is a phenomenon caused by the milky sperm
that the male herring deposits where ever the spawning females
are found.So this is a rendition showing people in a canoe who
have just found the creamy colored showing in the ocean during
the time of the moon of MILKY WATERS. Roy Henry Vickers
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" MOUNTAIN EAGLE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
26" x 9"
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Cedar Snags, snowcapped mountains, a full moon and salmon
on the barbeque all comprise the essence of a westcoast summer evening. Emerald green glacial rivers, the scent of cedar on a
warm summer breeze, and the ever present eagle, are my
reminiscing of Bute Inlet.
Fun in the sun, blue skies and hours of playtime on a fishing
boat with my sons are favorite memories of a high quality
weekend at Sonora Lodge, North of Campbell River.
Of all the recollections of a near perfect day on the Northwest
Coast, the one that comes to immediate vision is that of a
Bute Inlet Mountain Eagle.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" MORNING STAR "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
14.5" x 18"
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Coyote's song drifts across the river valley and
somewhere in the distance a flock of geese can be heard as you
slip into a peaceful sleep.
The morning star, a cup of coffee and a campfire are an
invigorating way to start your day. The sound of a bull elk bugle
from the river mists below brings a sense of wonder as you watch
and listen to the dawn of a beautiful day in the Kootenai's.
During the day you are treated to the sight of deer, coyote, raven,
eagle and many flocks of geese. A horseback ride through the
pine and tamarack in the late afternoon brings you into
contact with wild turkey and ruffed grouse.
These are reasons I love to go to the mountains each Fall to
recreate myself and enjoy the company of close friends.
The morning star, a campfire, and coffee with Bear, a.k.a.
Larry, are the inspiration for this creation.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" NUNSULSAILUS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
8" x 29"
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Journeys 1997 was a thousand mile canoe trip from Hazelton
on the Skeena River, to Victoria's Inner Harbour. The route we
took is an ancient one, used by the ancestors of all of British
Columbia's Coastal People. Our particular undertaking was
unique as it was a fund raising event.When dawn came to the
beach at Open Bight, it brought an air of anticipation on a very
special day. It was time to make the rounding of Cape Caution,
the most exciting and notorious section of Queen Charolette Sound.
The weather looked unsettled and the forecast was for light- to-moderate north westerlies. All in all, it was a fairly promising day.
My canoe in named Nunsulsailus, a Tsartlip word meaning many hands. The name was chosen for the significance of hands: hands working together, supporting one another and pulling together in unison to enable our canoe to travel many miles; hands helping to
build a center to benefit anyone wishing to overcome addictions.Nunuslasilus carried us over the huge ground swells and gusting winds of Cape Caution without incident. The 18-foot-high waves threatened to swamp us, yet we rode them safely. There were many hands that pulled together and gave Nunsulsailus the power
and stability to navigate a famous stretch of water without faltering.
It was an exhilarating ride on the sea that none of us will ever forget. That day was one of the most memorable for me.This work is
dedicated to the crews of Nunsulsailus and all those who continue
to lend a helping hand to the ongoing work of Vision Quest.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" MOTHER OCEAN "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" x 18"
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I grew up on the ocean and learned a healthy respect for her at
a very young age. I remember my grandfather, Henry, telling me
the ocean was like a women, never take her for granted and things should go well. I didn't know what he was talking about at in those
days but I was to find out later in life.
There have been numerous times at sea when I thought my life
was over. I can still hear my Mother praying on our fishing boat
and asking my Dad to turn around and find a safe place to anchor.
I recall another incident travelling with a friend on the northern
tip of Vancouver Island. We had left Port Hardy and were heading across a section of shallow water at the north end of Johnstone
Straits. The tide was ebbing and we got caught in something
known locally as the elevators. The tide running hard came up from hundreds of fathoms to a few fathoms and this caused a section
of standing waves so high the were called, the elevators. When I
heard my friend scream in terror at the top of a 40 foot high
standing wave, I knew it was time to turn around and find a safe harbour to wait for slack tide.
Another ocean incident I recall was off the coast of Long Beach
when I was commercial fishing back in 1980. I was one of the
last trollers to leave in a steadily increasing westerly wind. When
the wind reached 35 knots I headed in for Ucluelet and for 45
minutes it was a very uncomfortable ride before reaching the calm harbour of Ucluelet.
These are some of the stories that have
inspired this creation I call, Mother Ocean.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" ORCA SUNSET "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
12" x 20"
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Fishing with my Grandpa, Henry Vickers was one of my
greatest learning experiences. Henry was a man of the outdoors,
a trapper, a fisherman, and a hunter. One beautiful summer day
we were fishing sockeye with our gill net. My job was to keep an
eye on our progress while Grandpa slept. The sound came from
far down the channel and sounded like gunshots so I went to
wake Grandpa up. He listened for a few seconds and said they
were killer whales then curled up to return to sleep. I ran up on deck and waited as the sounds got closer and then was treated to an unbelievable spectacle. There were dozens of whales and a few
were jumping clear of the ocean and landing with a loud smack
and that was what sounded like the gunshots in the distance. There
were many incredible experiences on the sea as I grew up and
that one will always be uppermost in my mind.
When John Forde gave me the picture of an orca at sunset the
memory of whales breaching came to mind and so I thank John
for the wonderful memory and the inspiration for
ORCA SUNSET.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" PINK SALMON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
13" Diameter
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The month of August has come and gone and the last days
of summer are slipping by. This month of August is called the
moon of PINK SALMON.
This is the time for the harvest of the smallest of the salmon
species and an important harvest to my ancestors.
For me the PINK SALMON is not a big attraction, it is the
bottom of the salmon scale in my humble opinion. My
grandfather Henry always looked forward to the
PINK SALMON fishing.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" OCTOPUS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
19" x 9"
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I have many stories about octopus experiences in my life and a
couple come to mind that are behind the inspiration for this
OCTOPUS.
Back in the late 1970's I was fresh out of the Gitanmaax School
of Northwest Coast Indian Art in Hazelton, BC. I went to my home village of Kitkatla that summer and was out fishing for crabs with an elder when we came across this very large octopus. We managed to catch it and bring it on board. Chester, the elder told me that young men used to prove their bravery by reaching up inside the octopus
arms to grab it's beak and pull it out while it was still alive thus
ending it's life and showing great courage. I then took the large
octopus and followed the instructions and we enjoyed a fresh meal.
When I moved to Tofino and opened Eagle Aerie Gallery I also did
a lot of scuba diving in the waters around Tofino. When the diver
from the Stanley Park Aquarium came to Tofino to collect species
I was his assistant. We recovered a number of live octopi and I
always remember a tiny octopus that we had recovered by accident.
I like to think that the large octopus was the mother and the little octopus we captured that day was one of the offspring and they
were hauled off to live together in Vancouver.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" OTTER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
6.25" x 13"
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Back in the spring of 1980 I made my first trip to the west coast.
I was the skipper of a freezer troller. My first otter sighting was
many miles off shore. As I was trolling along one day I passed this peculiar looking sight, it was an otter floating on his back. He just
lay on the ocean surface and watched as I went by. I hoped to see another but never did.
This spring I was here in Tofino for the spring break with my family. After a few days in the gallery I enjoyed a trip to Hotsprings Cove
with friends and family.
As we headed around the far side of Flores Island we came across
four sea otter enjoyng the area. They were the first ones I had seen
in more than two decades. A day or two later a young girl brought
me a postcard with a photograph her father had taken of a sea otter.
On that same trip we visited science world in Vancouver and my son's choice of a purchase to remember the trip was a stuffed toy sea otter.
I thought of the many years the Sea Otter was near extinction. With
the help of so many concerned people the Otter has made a recovery and can be seen in many places along our coast.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" POTLATCH MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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The Potlatch Moon is also known as the Giving Moon among
my Holistic family in Waglisla, otherwise known as Bella Bella.
Every For thousands of years the Potlatch season or giving season begins in December and that moon is called the Giving Moon or Potlatch Moon. The people of the northwest have always known
that it is better to give than receive.The time of giving means that
all the families who want to uplift the names that they carry prepare
to give gifts to all in a great celebration of life. It can take many
years to prepare for a Potlatch that may last for as many as four
days. The food gatherers store up food, the artists and crafts people make ready the regalia, the women ready the young girls for the
rites of puberty and the parents prepare the young to be uplifted. Sometimes weddings take place, and always those that have passed
on are honored as well as those who grieve. During these times of feasting and dancing there are those who take the time to make
things right and settle disputes. This winter season is when all the important social and business transactions take place.This Potlatch Moon is dedicated to the my Holistic relatives who proudly carry
on the tradition of gift giving.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" PIERCE MEMORIAL , KISPIOX "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
20" x 16"
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Serigraphy
A stencil method of printmaking in which an image is imposed
on a silk or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with
an impermeable substance, and ink is forced through the mesh
onto the printing surface. Also called silkscreen and
screen-printing.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" PROSPECT LAKE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
11.5" x 28"
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It was one of those magical evenings on Prospect Lake. We
were staying with friends and enjoying their home so close to the
city of Victoria and yet so far away. A relaxing visit after dinner
with great conversation that we've enjoyed for forty years.
We noticed a lone fisherman on the lake in a belly boat. Belly
boats are a fancy inner tube set up for fly fishing.
They are self propelled by fins on your feet and you keep dry
in the chest waders.
This is a quiet and peaceful way to fish and certainly seemed to
suit this summer evening on Prospect Lake.
Thanks Larry and Boo!
Roy Henry Vickers
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" PURIFICATION "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
18" x 18"
Email-price
Back in the late 1970's I was fresh out of the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art in Hazelton, BC. I went to my home
village of Kitkatla that summer and was out fishing for crabs with
an elder when we came across this very large octopus. We managed
to catch it and bring it on board. Chester, the elder told me that
young men used to prove their bravery by reaching up inside the octopus arms to grab it's beak and pull it out while it was still alive
thus ending it's life and showing great courage. I then took the large octopus and followed the instructions and we enjoyed a fresh meal.When I moved to Tofino and opened Eagle Aerie Gallery I
also did a lot of scuba diving in the waters around Tofino. When the diver from the Stanley Park Aquarium came to Tofino to collect
species I was his assistant. We recovered a number of live octopi
and I always remember a tiny octopus that we had recovered by accident. I like to think that the large octopus was the mother and the little octopus we captured that day was one of the offspring and they were hauled off to live together in Vancouver.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" PROSPECT LAKE OSPREY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
20" x 14"
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It was a beautiful sunny afternoon when I first saw the osprey.
My wife Rhonda and I were visiting friends who live at the South
end of Prospect Lake in Victoria, B.C. We sat on the front porch
and marvelled at the sight of a pair of ospreys in their nest, high
atop a giant fir tree overlooking the lake.
Over the following months, we had the good fortune to observe
the courtship of these beautiful birds and the resulting family.
There is no doubt in my mind that the young one has learned to
fly as I write this story.
I will not be able to see it grow up and leave the nest, as my wife
and I are expecting a baby in a few days and I am staying very
close to home here in Tofino!I look forward to the day next year
when my family can visit our friends again, and I can show our
child the Prospect Lake Osprey.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" RAVEN PEOPLE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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I have been adopted by the House of Walkus in Owikeeno and carry
the mantle of a chieftainship. The crest of the house is Raven and so
it is that I am a Raven amoung the Owikeeno people, as well as the Bella Bella and Waglisla people. These are the people of my Grandfather, Henry Vickers, and I am proud to be a Raven, as he
was.I have also had the blessing of being adopted into the Skidegate people and the Haida nation. My greatgrandfather, Amos Collinson, was from this village. Amos moved to Kitkatla and married my greatgrandmother and became Chief of the Ravens. It was Mabel Williams who adopted me in Skidegate and gave me a name which translates into, 'he paints with his spirit'. So it is that I carry the
Raven crest amoung the Haida nation.These two adoptions bring a descendant of chiefs in a full circle back to his home and roots. The truth of it all is that we are part of our ancestors and we walk with
them through this world. I am fortunate to know my paternal
ancestors and carry their crests and lineage.So the Raven People,
are part of a sacred circle that continues to be known in this modern day and the many teachings from our ancestors are relevant today as they have always been.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" ROSIE BAY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
12" x 28"
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Back in 1981 I had settled into Tofino and was getting to know a number of people in town and they were slowly being introduced to
my artwork. I was invited to open up a gallery and display my artwork in the old Mason's lodge above the Schooner Restaurant.I opened the Eagle Aerie Gallery and began the work of an art gallery owner. My luck was that I only had one artist to deal with and that was me.There were a number of people who took me under their collective wings
and coached me along. The first lesson I learned was that I could not close the doors and hang a sign saying, 'Gone Fishing', when ever
the conditions were
right. I worked hard and took the advice of the Pettinger family, owners of Pacific Sands Resort, as well as Mary
and Dillis, owners of The Mini Motel. There were many others in
Tofino who supported me and coached me along and I am thankful
for their support as long as I live.Mr. and Mrs. Pettinger are gone now but their family still owns and operates Pacific Sands Resort. I was visiting one day and learned something that I was ignorant of for
almost fifteen years and that was the existence of a place called
Rosie Bay near Pacific Sands. Thanks to the Pettingers and the many photographs they have of Rosie Bay and John Ford and Jennifer
Steven who helped with this creation I call, ROSIE BAY, I've come
full circle one more time in a piece of artwork.This work is dedicated
to friends like the Pettingers, and so many others who continue to
help and encourage me on this wonderful journey of life.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" RAVEN APRON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
22" x 15"
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Chilkat weavings are among the most beautiful examples of
creativity done on this Coast. I am proud to say that the weaving tradition is being carried on into the new millennium by a
new generation and will hopefully inspire all chiefs to pick up
their rattles and dance the dance of peace.
Old songs and new songs are are being sung and written by
the younger generation. The drum is being heard more
frequently outside the longhouse, and that is good, for it is
the
heartbeat of all Nations. It is said that if you can sing it and
dance it, you can do it.
This Raven Apron design is for a Raven Chief who would also
be a Peace Dancer.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SALMON LEGEND "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
12.5" x 20"
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There is a story told of a young woman who mourned the loss
of her brother to the sea. Every day, the sister went to the seaside
to mourn for her brother. One day, a message came to her from
The Creator, that her brother was fine, that he had become part
of the Salmon People.
The sister wanted to see her brother and asked to be changed into
a salmon. The brother and sister are now part of the Salmon People and they return each year with the salmon, which is the main food source of the people of the Northwest.
The salmon are shown with a human male figure and a human
female figure to represent the brother and sister who bring
them back each year.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SALMON SKULL "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
9.5" x 10"
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Every year the salmon come back to the rivers to spawn and die.
The carcasses feed the wildlife, bear, eagle, wolf, raven, and, even
the trees and plants. We are the people of the salmon because it has been the food staple as long as old as our oldest ancestors.
When I see a salmon skull or decomposing body on the rivers edge
I see many lives sustained because the salmon has returned to give
up it's life for multitudes of new lives.
When the leaves have all left in the fall and hibernating ones have
gone for their winter sleep we enter a time of celebration for the goodness that mother nature provides.
I pray that we humans who are left to the task of sustaining life
for future generations will take care of this delicate balance of
which we are a part.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SEALION TOWN "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
22" x 9"
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The celebration of Dempsey and Irene Collinson's Golden Wedding Anniversary was a good reason for my last visit to Gwaii Hanas,
the Queen Charlotte Islands. I was struck by the incredible influence
we have in the lives of others as I realized there were people from across Canada and across the Pacific ocean gathered together to
honor two people.During the evening I was introduced in a very traditional way which explained my Haida ancestral lineage. I was
so overwhelmed by the detail of ancestors and the connection to the Collinson family, I hardly remember what I said. I was there to pay respect to distant relatives whose lives are an example of outstanding commitment and acceptance of each other so I hope that is the impression I left.On the way to the ferry the next day I was reminded
of the strength of culture among the Haida when I saw the image of a new totem and large ocean canoe at anchor in front of Sealion Town.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SEEBUNSE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
80 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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The Tsimshian word "seebunse" is used to describe the one
you love. Literally translated, "seebunse" means heartache.
The idea for seebunse, the painting, comes from many
evenings watching the Summer sunsets on Chesterman
Beach
in Tofino.
Seebunse is dedicated to the romantic in all of us.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SHARK DRUM "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
13" Diameter
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The shark has been a part of northwest coast crests and
mythology for over ten thousand years of history and storytelling.
This shark design comes from a different inspiration. My son
attended Bayside Middle School for a year, their mascot and
school logo is the shark. I was asked to complete a piece of work
for the school depicting my rendition of a shark. So this shark is
carved in a three foot glass circle and hangs in the school library.
I am glad that our northwest coast mythology and design is finding
it's way into our public school system. It is my hope and desire to
have our younger generation far more knowledgeable than any generation before them when it comes to our First Nations
art and culture.
Thank you William and the staff and students of Bayside
School for inspiring me to create this SHARK .
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SIDNEY SNOW "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
19.5" x 8.5"
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This has been an exciting year for all of us at Eagle Dancer
Enterprises. After two years of planning we have been welcomed
by the people of Sidney and North Saanich where we opened the
new, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery in the Sidney Inn By The Sea. In
the 90's it was Eagle's Moon in Victoria and then the small gallery
in Brentwood, now we have the beautiful Gallery in Sidney and
have welcomed a former member of the crew back into our canoe.
It's good to have Gord back and in charge of the new gallery.
One day Gord was on his way in to the new gallery and
photographed the Sidney waterfront. That photo inspired me to
create this work that is reminiscent of the snow falls at sea level
that bring such a rare beauty. I hope that the print of Sidney
Snow comes to life on the waterfront this winter, until then, I
will enjoy this print in our home.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SKIDEGATE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
12.5" x 20"
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This work commemorates my adoption by Mabel Williams of
Skidegate, B.C. at a family feast held for the headstone moving ceremony of Godfrey Collinson-Williams, Mabel's late husband.
My adoption was witnessed by the Chiefs and Elders of the village
of Skidegate. Skidegate was the birth place of Amos Collinson, my great-grandfather, so I was welcomed into the hometown of my ancestor in a very traditional ceremony.
I carry the name ‘Gatlindie Kuudlan Oolgaiga' which translates
to ‘Spirit Painter' in the language of the Skidegate people. The
adoption brings me into the Raven clan of Skidegate and I have the rights to use the following crests: Raven, Moon, Rainbow, Mountain Goat, Grizzly Bear, Cummulous Cloud, Double-finned Whale, and ‘Raven with Moon in Mouth'. The evening I left with part of my new family (my sister, Terry-Lynn Williams and even my brother, Robert Davidson), there was a full moon rising over the ocean in front of Skidegate and I was struck by the wonder of it all.
Raven is seen three times in the sky, representing the three
generations since Amos Collinson, the fact that my wife, Rhonda
and my son William, are Ravens from my Tsimshian village of
Kitkatla, and that I am a Haida Raven from Skidegate and the Collinson family. Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2000 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 13"
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This fall, a friend of mine reminded me of the series of fishing boats
that I have done and commented that I had omitted halibut fishing.
Roly sent me a photo of his uncle's halibut boat, "Yankee Boy", and
that old photo showing he boat rigged for halibut was the inspiration for this Solstice 2000 work.
I use to hear incredible stories of the hardships of fishing for halibut when my Dad came home from the sea. I remember names like Kamchatka, The Bering Sea, Yankee Boy and Sleeprobber; these
were the names of places and boats familiar to all who know halibut fishing on the Northwest Coast. Some of my favorite stories include incredible 500 pound halibut and temperatures so extreme that the
crew had to take axes and chop ice off the decks so they could work.
This work is dedicated to those men who braved the elements
in search of halibut all over the Northwest Coast.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2001 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" x 13"
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During this time in our lives with war and rumors of war there
is no more important message than that peace and goodwill to all. Christmas celebrates the glory of our Creator coming to us in the
birth of one whose name is CHRISTmas. I am glad to be part of
many nations who celebrate love and peace, each in their own way.
It is not important how we celebrate, it is important that we
demonstrate peace, love, honor, and, respect.
Eagle Aerie Gallery is the centerpiece for Solstice 2001. The peacedancer in the sky represents the HOYLEEKILA who dance the message of peace at potlatches on the northwest coast. During the peacedance, eagledown is shaken from the headdress to fall on the people as a symbol of peace. Snow falling is symbolic of eagledown. Eagle on the front of the building is the one who supplies the sacred down from beneath it's layer of feathers.
My prayer this year is that Solstice brings a turning point in lives
from darkness to light, from unrest to peace, confusion to clarity,
and from hate to love.
Solstice 2001 speaks of contentment for me. Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2003 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 13"
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It was one of those cold, wet, West Coast days and my buddy, Larry
and I braved the elements to show my son, Gord some of our favorite fishing holes. We paddled canoes up a few creeks and pulled them up the shallow fast water. Gord survived a baptism of icy water through torn chest waders. At the end of the day I recall Gord's ironic comment, "You guys actually call this fun?"Many years have passed and Gord is now a seasoned and experienced fly fisherman who teaches me a few things. A visit to Gord's will reveal gear, wardrobe, and boats to fish through sun, sleet, rain, hail, or snow on lake or river. My wife says that when Gord's not fishing he is probably thinking of fishing. We've spent many days over the years together in the wilderness enjoying the time with fishing rods in hand. I recall one New Years Day at daybreak in Haida Gwaii when Gord caught a steelhead on his own hand tied fly.This one particular eve we sat on a log and waited for the magic hours as Gord explained the coming event. He told me how he loved
the sky turning soft shades of pink and mauve as the breeze died down. The waters would calm and reveal trout rising along the flats at high tide. I listened in awe to this young man who wondered some years back if this could actually be fun. In a few minutes I gazed through tear filled eyes as my son cast his fly expertly to the cutthroat trout schooling around him. I observed an excellent fisherman with a knowledge of entomology and a great appreciation for the mystery of the natural world around him.So this change of seasons, this Winter Solstice 2003,
I am cognizant of the many turning points in my life and the love, joy, and, peace, that have come as a result of good choices.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2005 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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I completed a piece titled Solstice 2005 for December of that year.
This work began it's life as the thirteenth moon refered to as the
"blue moon".
In the prehistoric year on the north coast there were thirteen moons recognized. Many of the nations called this the thirteenth moon the Elder Moon of Cold Moon.
It has been a goal of mine to produc a calendar with thirteen moons. That dream is now a reality and Solstice 2005 is also the Cold Moon
for this calendar.
This land of the Skeena and Kispiox rivers where I live is full of inspiration and I am thankful for the gifts life has brought me. I love
to visit Ksan where it all began for me back in 1973.
On a recent visit I photographed one fo the longhouses there along
with the totem and so it has become the image that celebrates
Solstice 2005 as well as the thirteenth moon, the Cold Moon.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2006 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
13.75" x 6.125"
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In 1974 I finished an 8' Owl totem as my final work to graduate
from the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art. This
totem has stood since 1974 on the pathway leading onto the Ksan grounds with its partner, a totem by my classmate Dempsey Bob. Today, thirty-two years later, I walk by my owl totem and it reminds
me of the many years I have enjoyed life as an artist in British Columbia.
This December I make a journey to Ottawa to be formally inducted
into the Order of Canada. There are those who have said that I've worked hard for this award, I don't agree. It is an honour and I am overwhelmed, but it is not what i have worked hard to achieve. I've worked hard to do my best to communicate my love of my country
and its people. I've attempted to give a tiny glimpse into the people
of the northwest coast and a rich culture and an artistic expression
that is as fine as any known to man.This winter solstice will come
and go as I continue to do my best as a proud member of Canadian Society with Tsimsian, Heilstuk, Haida and English ancestors. Quite
a typical Canadian with ancestors from four nations. I pray that we
do our best to bring a message of peace, and hope as individuals
that the difference that we make is for everything beautiful. I pray
that the numbers of people who love and respect the land will
continue to grow and bring others to a greater awareness of our delicate Mother Earth.Each time I take a stroll through the grounds
at Ksan and pass my wise old owl, I cannot help but feel a great gratitude to this land of the Gitksan and the gifts they have given me. Today I am Gitksan for the word literally means "people of the Skeena".These are some of the inspired thoughts behind this years' tradition of creating a piece to celebrate the change of seasons and
so it is for SOLSTICE 2006. Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2007 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
11.75" x 20"
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In 1980 I moved to Tofino where most of the people I met had
a surfboard and wetsuit so they could play in the ocean any month
of the year. I remember the first home I bought had a huge furnace
in it and the door had a special handmade emblem on it of a
surfer. I asked the local man who made it if he surfed and he told
me he did in his younger days. He didn't seem that old to me not
to surf. Well here I am at sixty two and I enjoy watching the surfers
and remember the last time I surfed which was more than a
couple of years ago. I think the same as my old friend, Jim ,
that the waves can be ridden by the younger ones.
I was in Tofino this month and watched a local surf competition
which took me back to those days when I sat on my board off Chesterman Beach waiting for waves.
People think it's just too crazy to be out there in the winter
months but that's when some of the best waves can be found
and the ocean does not change more than a few degrees
between the hottest summer day and the middle of winter.
Some
of the top surfers in the world are local guys who grew
up in Tofino or have moved there to enjoy our west coast surf.
My thanks to Tofino's Jeremy Koreski who took the photo that
inspired me, and Raph Bruhwiler, the Tofino surfer who is the
surfer in the picture. Times have changed since the 1980's and
that change is why this year's solstice inspiration is a surfer
leaving footprints in the snow.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2008 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
19" x 9"
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Well here I am looking at Solstice 2008 and remembering winters
in Two Mile, near Hazelton, B.C. As children we spent many an evening under a streetlight on an icy road, or preferably on a frozen pond with candles all around playing hockey with frozen horse
manure for a puck, T.Eaton catalogues for shin pads, and whatever
we could find or make for hockey sticks. There was always a good
fire nearby when we were too cold.
This past year we spent a wonderful evening at Bearclaw Ranch
that I've described before in other stories. As I sat watching people playing on a frozen sheet of ice that our friends, the Alan family
had put together I wondered how the simple winter games had
stood the test of time. Today with all of that happens in the world
to strike fear into our hearts when we sit and watch the local news
it is comforting to know we can shut the TV off and get outside
and play. We can hear sounds muffled by the snow, skates sliding
on the ice and laughter among friends, these things are what I've
come to know as warmth in the cold of winter.
So for Solstice 2008 It is so very good to know that through all
the changes, those things that really make a difference, peace, joy,
and love will always remain the same.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SONORA SUNSET "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
17.5" x 27"
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We sat at our dining room table overlooking the mountains that
towered above Bute Inlet. The scene was spectacular and we
enjoyed stories of a day spent fishing and cruising the inlets. The weather was hot with clear blue skies and everyone enjoyed the spectacle of natures beauty all through the day.
A few minutes earlier our friendly and informed server had told us
how eagles often gathered at big tides to scoop hake from the surface. The huge upsurge of tides in the narrows in front of us would bring schools of hake to the surface so fast that the air inside them
expanded and they could not swim. This incredible happening of
nature provided the eagles with a ready meal. Eagles in the area
are always watching for a meal and when they see their peers
circling an area on huge outspread wings they know something
is happening.
We noticed a half dozen eagles circling the skies and within
minutes there were more than a hundred eagles circling and
diving to the waters surface to pick up fish. The story we had just
heard was coming true before us.
The dinner was superb and the staff took great care to ensure
our dining experience was exquisite. Nothing could surpass the
drama of eagles dining from natures bounty as we enjoyed our
meal. This beautiful day in paradise ended with all the colors
of a Summer evening that I will always remember as that Sonora
Sunset when we dined with the eagles.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" SOLSTICE 2009 "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
70 s/n Serigraph
26.5" x 19"
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Solstice 2009 heralds the coming of Christmas and the stories of
peace and goodwill toward men. I am reminded of the old legend
from the book, The Legends of Vancouver. The story tells of two
sisters, daughters of the great Chief Capilano. In ancient times the northern nations, the Tsimshian were at war with the Capilano
people and this war had gone on for many years. The beautiful
young ladies thought of a way to bring peace to the people and the
land. They asked for a great feast to be held to honor the women of
the land inviting the northern nations. Their plan was approved by
the Chief and wise council of elders. The feast was held and the
sisters married two men from the north and bore two children,
Peace and Brotherhood. To this day we live in the peace that the
two sisters brought to the world of the north west. The Great Creator lifted the two sisters to the hills and they became the stone mountains
we call the Lions. They sit in the north forever watching over the land and it's people who live in peace with their northern neighbors.
I am from the Tsimshian nation and I know this to be true for I've experienced many good things among the southern nations, feasts
of celebration. Canoe events that show many nations pulling together
in fun and friendship up and down this great coast. I lived in the south for many years and have returned to the north country where I pray
that the leadership these sisters showed reminds the world that it is possible to live in peace and brotherhood.
The legend of The Sisters can be found in the book, The Legends of Vancouver, by E. Pauline Johnson. This book was published in 1912 with the permission of the great chief, Capilano so that we could learn of the beautiful story of two women who led nations to a peace that continues to this day. Roy Henry Vickers
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" ST. JOHNS - MASSET "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Original Print
20" x 16"
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" STANDING EAGLE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
29.5" x 11.25"
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" ST MARY'S MAGDALENES "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Original Print
20" x 16"
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" STEELHEAD "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
18.5" x 13.5"
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The very work brings to mind visions of the largest of it's
species ever seen by a human. For those of you who have
never heard, the Steelhead is the most exciting game fish that
anyone could ever have on the end of their fishing line.
Steelheading is usually
pursued in some of the colder
months on the West Coast.
This particular creation was strongly suggested to me by some
of my fishing partners with whom I have spent many a happy
hour seeking that elusive king of sportfish. STEELHEAD then
is dedicated to those I have fished with and to all those who
sneak through the woods, trip over logs and windfalls,
slide
down riverbanks and fall into the icy waters of a mountain
stream or river in a desperate search for this magnificent rival.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" STONE COUNTRY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
16.5" x 22"
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Each year, in September or October, I make my journey to the mountains to refreshen myself and come close to Mother Earth
as my ancestors have done for thousands of years. This is a
spiritual journey as well as a practical trip to natures food storage.
I was raised a fisherman and a hunter, as was my father and his
before him. This last year, my pilgrimage began with a Sweat
Lodge and a period of fasting and preparation for a very special
time. There have been many times that I have hunted and fished
without reverence or responsibility for my actions. Lately, I have
come to a place in my life where I have a new respect for myself
and my actions, an am therefore able to show that respect o the
world around me.
Stone Country is the Rocky Mountains. It is also that place on
Earth where I can come close to my Creator. It seems that the top
of a mountain somehow brings me closer to God and so closer
to myself. At times like this, I am aware of how precious life is
and
that the time we have to spend on earth is so short in the scheme
of things that we should make the best of it.This year I took meat
home to my family, and I am thankful for the privilege and freedom
of being able to assume such responsibility.
I can reminisce over a sunny afternoon and a Rocky Mountain
high when I sit back and look at Stone Country.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" STONE EAGLE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
27.875" x 16"
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On July 4th and 5th this year I participated in a potlatch in
Wuikinuxv at the head of Rivers Inlet. This is the home of the House
of Waakas. The Potlatch was to celebrate many descendants of the Waakas, amoung them was Dorothy Walkus who adopted me
many years ago.The Potlatch was a teaching Potlatch where
everything was explained to the people. It was the most spiritual celebration of this type that I've attended. The drumming, singing,
and dancing was taken to another level and it would take many
pages to attempt to relate some of the events so I will not try. It was
an honor and privilege to be a part of it.This magical place on the
coast is responsible for many inspirational works dating back approximately 20 years. The latest is Stone Eagle which first appears
in a work I titled, Guardian Of The Pass. My attachment to Rivers
Inlet and Owikeeno Lake and it's people has inspired this rendition
of the Stone Eagle. As you travel east towards the far end of the
lake you first see this rock outcropping in the distance. Legends tell
us that this Eagle would smash the canoe of an enemy approaching
the people and welcome anyone coming in peace.The moon rise
over Stone Eagle is a symbol of peace and if you look carefully you
may see the welcome figure and an outline of house posts as well
as
the face of ancestors and the figure of an eagle or two who
continue to watch over the land and the people.Thank you Ted,
Aunty Evelyn, all the teachers from Kingcome, the House of
Waakas and all who were a part of the Waakas Potlatch of 2009.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE HEALER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 30"
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There are four stages in a Sweat experience. The first is the east
the direction of the teacher, second is the south the way of the
healer, then we look to the way of the
visionary in the west and
lastly to the north, the direction of the leader.When I look to The
Healer, I'm aware that two emotions we have give the same gift
when we process them; joy and pain give the gift of healing in life.
We all go through trauma in life and it is the healer in us that
makes something positive of pain and joy.The Healer is the first
of a series of works that look inward and help me to deal with all
the feelings. The graphite represents the darkness that is part of us
all and the red copper color represents the red road, the healing
road. This red road stands for sobriety of mind, for those who
discipline themselves to think soberly and take whatever action is necessary for peace, love, strength, truth, and, beauty. The shape
of the human with open arms is a shape that is similar to the soul catcher that we see in ancient art works and sculpture. The soul
catcher is used by the Healer to help capture and bring back those
parts of us that run away and hide in the face of abuse and traumatic events. These old ways of healing are as important today as they
have always been.The Healer is a work in progress just as our
healing is always a work in progress. We make a difference in the
world around us so our healing helps us to bring healing to others
and so this is dedicated to the healer in all of us.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" TEARDROPS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
21" x 14"
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I have a friend, Moe who has inspired a number of my works
over the years. We find inspiration in the world around us,
sometimes from people and other times from the land.
Moe has lost his wife and dear friend, Maureen, who he often
referred to as his navigator. Maureen left a big hole in our lives
yet continues to fill it with her love and the memory of her smile.
It is also evident that she continues to be the navigator in Moe's life.
Not long ago Moe sent me a couple of photos that he had taken
and asked me what I thought of the gift that appeared in one of
them. I saw two water drops in the needles of a spruce tree after
a rain and I thought of tears of joy and tears of pain.
I'm reminded that inspiration comes from the Creator of all
and the resulting work from inspiration is greater than the sum
of its parts.
Thank you Moe and Maureen for your inspiration to many in the
world who were blessed by their connection with you.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE PEACE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
7.75" x 11.75"
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Last fall, 2007, I had the opportunity to go on a buffalo hunt
which turned out to be a wonderful experience. I was traveling
with childhood friends from Hazelton, B.C. To be out on the land
with friends who have grown up as hunters and trappers brings
a new dimension to the experience.
We traveled to Alberta where we stayed with a very hospitable
family who had the bison on their ranch. Ken and his wife Judy,
our new friends taught us that they are bison not buffalo. Our
hunting cabin was a three bedroom home overlookin
g the Peace river.
One morning I was up early for a pipe ceremony to honor the
day and the bison that would give up it's life. At the end of the pipe ceremony just before the sun began to appear there was an
awesome moment that I knew I wanted to capture.
So here is, THE PEACE, with the bison in the sky and a bison
skull in the shadows of the foreground along with the brand
of Wineglass Ranch. Thank you Ken and Judy and your children
for a most memorable experience.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE SLEIGHRIDE "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
14" x 21"
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We decided last Christmas that we would enjoy a new experience
and so we made our way to a farm east of Houston, B.C. where
we had the most wonderful afternoon an a winter wonderland.
We sat on bales of hay wrapped in blankets as we rode through
open fields and through the snow covered evergreens.
On one part of the ride as we came close to a grove of silder
birch and poplar trees we were greeted by a group of bull elk
who comely watched as we photographed them and went on
our
way. We were a group of two families, the Vickers and the
Smiths. My lifelong friend Ray and his family brought a
special
feeling of fun and laughter.
After a couple of hours we were treated to hot chocolate
around a fire before driving home. The rest of the story is still
to come......the horses really did have red Santa toques.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE MATRIARCH "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
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One evening in the spring of the year, I was enjoying a sunset
on McKenzie Beach in Tofino, B.C. I noticed a friend and his
daughter drawing in the sand near the waters edge. As I enjoyed
the scene with one of our beautiful sunsets, I noticed Grandma
standing back to enjoy the same sight. I walked up and stood
beside my friend, Rone, and she said, "I want to join in and yet
I stay back to give my son time with his daughter.'
I was reminded of all the women, grandmothers, daughters,
mothers, sisters and wives who seem to teach us men continually
of observing details. It's the women of the nations of the
northwest who pass on the names and legends to their descendants.
The majority of nurturing comes from the females in our lives.
It seems that our ancestors
acknowledge this truth by making the society a matriarchal one.
The love of outstretched nurturing arms and the strength of
childbearing all come from the teaching and mentoring
of The Matriarch.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE SKIFF "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
8.5" x 20"
Email-price
Sitting back on the float at sunset, the bay is mirror calm and
the magic of a northern sunset fills me with awe. I sit and reflect
on another incredible day on the ocean filled with fishing stories
and sightseeing.
The ascending notes of my favourite songbird fill evening and
the drift across the seas face to be reflected from the far shore.
The songs of the Swanson's Thrush accompany memories that
go back to my childhood and include hundreds of peace filled anchorages from Vancouver Island to Alaska. This month of
June always brings back this bird that some of our people call
the "berry ripener" and it stays with us through the summer
leaving somewhere close to the first frosts of fall.
I celebrate sixty years of life on the north coast this year and I
never tire or take for granted the magical beauty of this land
I
call home. Filled with thousands of wonderful memories and
a peace that surpasses anything I thought I might achieve, I
relax on this dock filled with gratitude accompanied
by The Skiff.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE VISIONARY "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 30"
Email-price
The direction of the West is the Visionary, the element is water,
the season is Fall, the color is midnight blue, the human
represented is male and the instrument is the click sticks. Click
sticks use to be the bones of our ancestors and have come to
be the drumsticks used around the world.
We are given vision
as humans to see with our inner eyes the road we travel and
how we move through this world. The Visionary is always
monitoring the healing and the knowledge to enable the
Leader to be a good one.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE WATCHMAN "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Original Print
17" x 15"
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It was a beautiful Summer morning and I had come to Comox
to
find an image. My desire was to pay homage to the land
and it's people.
I was intent on finding a scene of the Comox Valley and did
not
want to create another work illustrating the Comox Glacier.
I explored the area and went out on the water to glimpse the
old Comox village site and found no inspiration. I continued
on to the grounds of the Filberg Lodge to photograph a totem
that had recently been raised there. I heard the call of an
eagle and stopped to pay attention. I looked toward the ocean
and saw the eagle perched atop a piling. The tide was low and
I moved closer for a photograph. As I neared the eagle I feared
it may take flight and thought instantly it would not, for it had
called me. My desire not to use the glacier vanished amid
the excitement of finding the magic of Comox and heeding the
call of the eagle.
The presence of the eagle totem illustrates the Kwakiulth style
of design and sculpture. The Kwakiulth are a part of my
ancestry as well as that of the Comox people.
I am once again the recipient of a gift from my helper, Eagle.
Eagle, the master of fishing. Eagle, the patient one.
Eagle...The Watchman.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THE WARRIOR "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
5" x 28"
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The Sweatlodge series is a set of four limited edition prints that
have been coming for many years and it's the Teacher that finally brought it all to the surface.
North is the direction of the Warrior, the season is winter, the
color is white, the instrument is the rattle and the face is the face
of the Elder and the element is air.
This is the part of me that has needed the most work and I am
finally growing into it as I approach Elderhip. There are those
who call me an elder but I have been reluctant to accept this.
The time will come.
For now the newest work in the series has come to fruition
with the Soulcatcher as the theme the background color is bone
and the Warrior is a pearlescent white. The instrument of the Leader
is the rattle and so the warrior is shaking the rattle and asking for
the courage to stand against adversity. The shape over the eyes
is the armor of the northwest coast warrior.
In the darkness the leader is to be a beacon of light illuminating
the way in truth, strength, and, beauty.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" THREE CHAIRS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
7.5" x 19.5"
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For 26 years our family has enjoyed visits to Tofino and
the surrounding area. Every spring extended family and friends
gather at Ocean Village Resort to celebrate a number of birthdays.
It is a wonderful time of rest and relaxation and lots of fun.
Playtime is centered on the children who play with cousins
they don't get to see much throughout the year.
Ocean Village has been the choice of the family for many reasons,
the most important being, Moe and Maureen, the managers
there. I have come to appreciate their friendship. We have spent
many an hour swapping stories and sharing a deep passion for
the land. Moe introduced me to the wonders of new technology
in digital cameras. During the magic of dusk as I am out with my camera, I usually find Moe looking for that special shot of a sunset
with the soft charcoal images of silhouettes etched against
the evening sky.
This year marks the retirement of many years of hard work for
Moe and Maureen. Their passion has been making Ocean Village
a comfortable resort full of happy memories for thousands of
families, many of whom return year after year.
One evening during our spring visit this year I saw this image
and it reminded me of the many times three of us have sat together.
So 3 CHAIRS is dedicated to friendship.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" TROUT MOON "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
18" Diameter
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I was intent on making the last three moons in this twelve month
series Gitksan moons until I found in my research that there
were no names for the moons of October and November among
the Gitksan people. I know the Nishga call the moon of October
the Moon of Trout Fishing and I personally enjoy the fishing
of Steelhead during the month of October especially in the
Kispiox and the Skeena Rivers.
On Thanksgiving Day of 2004 I drove with great anticipation
to an area on the upper Kispiox River. There was a light
drizzle of rain and I was fishing unfamiliar territory.
I studied the river around me and waded to an area where the
current flowed over a shallow sandbar and dropped into a run
beneath large cottonwood trees. A suitable place for Steelhead
to rest protected by overhanging tree branches and deep water.
My reward for careful movement and attention to the river was
my first Steelhead on a fly. It was a
beautiful day for which I will
always be thankful. So for me the
moon in October will always
be the Trout Moon.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" WEST COAST SUNSET "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
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I had the occasion to paddle a canoe from Prince Rupert to
Kitkatla one Summer, following a route that was used by my
ancestors many times.
I left the harbour at the wrong time, and had to face adverse
tides at the mouth of the Skeena River and down the channel
to the village. I wished at the time that I could have learned
something of the seamanship of my ancestors prior to the
voyage.
In time - about seventeen hours - my friend and I finally arrived
at the village just at sunset. It was this memory that inspired
Westcoast Sunset.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" WHALER ISLETS "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
14.5" x 21"
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My first attraction to Whaler Islets was the beautiful, sandy
beach that almost completely surrounds the larger two small
islands. Later, I was drawn once again to the same Islet by
news of a beached whale.
I thought it was an incredible coincidence that of all the
islands the whale would have landed on, it happened upon
Whaler Islet.
The Islets are situated in the Southwest portion of Clayoquot
Sound, and are a favorite
stopping point for boaters who cruise
these waters in the Summer months.
Some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen looked
West to Whaler Islets and the open Pacific Ocean beyond.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" WHALER "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
100 s/n Serigraph
26.5" x 13"
Email-price
It's been twenty-eight years since my introduction to the West
coast of Vancouver Island in 1980. During my years in Tofino
there were so many good things that happened. I became a
passionate steelhead fisherman, I built Eagle Aerie Gallery and my career took a turn for the best and has remained on a continuous upward curve. I was able to see myself as a contemporary artist
and create images inspired by the rain, wind, and sun. It has been
a great satisfaction to be inspired by my relationship to nature.
Some of the most powerful images to come during my Tofino
years have been those of the whales. The gray whale, the orca,
and the humpback have always been exciting to see and have
always thrilled me.I've had whales come so close to my boat that
they touched it. I've fallen asleep to whale's load breathing near
by, I've thrilled to the sound of the whale's songs surrounding
me during scuba dives. I've enjoyed the faces of those who have
seen whales for the first time. I've been overwhelmed with sadness
at the sight of a dead beached whale on Whaler Island, near
Tofino. One of the most exciting happenings in the waters
around Tofino has been the return of the humpback whale to the
waters close to the beaches. In the early days back in the 1980's
it was a long trip offshore that was necessary for a sighting
of the humpback whale.When one of my staff showed me a picture
she had taken of a sunset through the beach grass on Whaler
Island I was inspired to create this image of a humpback
whale spyhopping. Thank you Adrienne for inspiring WHALER.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" WICKANINNISH "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
150 s/n Serigraph
11" x 19.5"
Email-price
My first attraction to Whaler Islets was the beautiful, sandy
beach that almost completely surrounds the larger two small
islands. Later, I was drawn once again to the same Islet by
news of a beached whale.
I thought it was an incredible coincidence that of all the
islands the whale would have landed on, it happened upon
Whaler Islet.
The Islets are situated in the Southwest portion of Clayoquot Sound,
and are a favorite
stopping point for boaters who cruise
these waters in the Summer months.
Some of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen looked
West to Whaler Islets and the open Pacific Ocean beyond.
Roy Henry Vickers
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" WHERE IS KITKATLA "
ROY HENRY VICKERS
50 s/n Serigraph
19.5" x 24"
Email-price
This scene was the first that came to mind when I set to work
on this project. So many times I sat in solitude
overlooking the ocean, wondering who I was and why in the
world was I in this city. Where is Kitkatla?
I felt so lost, so alone and extremely nostalgic. Gazing at the
ocean reminded me of Kitkatla. Lifting my eyes to the Olympic Mountains I was reminded of Hazelton and the Skeena Valley.
Today, when I visit Victoria, as I often do, I realize that Kitkatla
is always with me. My self portrayal is of a man in contemplation, sitting on a park bench in Victoria, with feet firmly fixed in the
village of Kitkatla.
The four houses are the four tribes of my village - Raven, Whale,
Eagle and Wolf. And thus, the question is answered in the painting.
Roy Henry Vickers
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