First Nations Set Drums & Totems Rolling

First Nations Carvers Start Work

It was always going to be a long job, but preliminary carving started this week on the two giant red cedars shipped to the Pans from Chemainus earlier in 2005. The totem poles are to be created ready for raising at the Global Conference in Prestonpans in August 2006.

The carvers, working with Kenny Grieve, held their first meetings with school children at Prestonpans Primary; met no fewer than 60 artists from the Festival's Art Workshops and Classes in the Thomas Nelson Suite; and talked and drumnmed in the James Fewell Bar. And did some trial carving as well of course!

It was the occasion of their initial 'exploratory' visit. The major carving is now formally scheduled for March 2006. Before that date the fullest discussions will have been held locally to detemine the local symbolism to be carved. To date only the Raven and Five Hats symbolism of the Barony have been resolved for inclusion.

All Panners interested in participating in any way whatever should be in touch with Kristine Cunningham via 01875 819922.

The pictures below capture some of the activities that took place.

Click on images to enlarge