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Killer Whale

In the Northwest Coast Native American culture these majestic creatures are associated with strength, dignity, prosperity, and longevity. Killer Whales are thought to be the reincarnations of great chiefs. They often guide people to safety when they are caught in stormy weather. All along the coast, fishermen and hunters often applied Killer Whale designs to their canoes for safety.

Whales, a common motif in the art of the Northwest Coast peoples, were the subject of countless stories and legends. One story held that a whale could capture a canoe and drag it and the people aboard down to an underwater Village of the Whales. These people were then transformed into whales themselves. The Haida believed that whales seen near villages were these drowned people trying to communicate with the villagers. The Coastal Indians held whales in great respect. The West Coast people of Vancouver Island, and the related Makahs, the only groups to hunt whales, underwent significant purification ceremonies prior to the hunt. The Orca is always regarded with respect by the Northwest Coastal Native Americans. He is the subject of much fantasy and superstition. The Orca is given to show respect and awe, and to tell someone that they bring harmony to your life.

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Thunderbird

The Thunderbird is recognized by its large recurved beak and horn on top of its head, which symbolized the supernatural. Thunderbird was the most powerful of the spirits. During a storm the Thunderbird scoops up the Killer Whale. The Elders say the bones of Killer Whales have been found on mountaintops, left there by the Great Thunderbird.

In the Northwest Coast Native American culture the Thunderbird is a giant, supernatural bird, named for his habit of causing thunder and lightning. Beneath his wings he carries "Lightning Snakes," which are his weapons. Thunder rolls from the flap of his wings, and lightning flashes when he blinks his great eyes or throws the "Lightning Snakes". He is large and strong enough to hunt Killer Whales, which he strikes dead with the wolf-headed, serpent-tongued Lightning Snakes. Thunderbird carries his prey high into the mountains to feed. From his home in these great heights, he rules majestically, keeping a close watch over his dominion. Thunderbird is intelligent and proud, and humans who attempt to outwit Thunderbird are certain to have their intentions backfire!

 

Understanding Northwest Coast Art - Cheryl Shearar