INDIGENOUS Symbols & Meanings
Bear
Bear represents strength and the possession of many human qualities.
Bear is referred to as the “Elder Kinsman” and is of high ranking.
(Artist: Jim McGuire, Haida)
Beaver
Beaver is known for determination, creativity and hard work
– the symbol of a carver and builder.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Butterfly
Symbol of transformation, metamorphosis.
(Artist: Nancy Dawson, Kwagiutlh)
Caribou
A northland wilderness symbol of self-esteem.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Dolphin
Life force. Bringer of power and control. Symbol of kindness and playfulness.
(Artist: Richard Shorty, Southern Tushony Nation)
Dragonfly
Symbol of ever-changing life.
(Artist: Maynard Johnny Jr., Salish and Kwa kwa k’wak)
Eagle
Eagle is the symbol of power and prestige. Eagle down is a sign of welcome.
Eagle represents peace and friendship, and is a spiritual guide.
(Artist: Van Joseph, Coast Salish)
Feather
The eagle feather is the symbol of peace, friendship and good luck.
(Artist: Vincent Henson, Kwa kwa k’wak)
Frog
Frog is the symbol of good luck and happiness.
Frog is the voice of the people and represents innocence.
(Artist: Clarence Mills, Haida)
Heron
Heron represents a patient, graceful and easy going nature.
(ARTIST: FRANCIS HORNE SR., COAST SALISH)
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Hummingbird
The messenger of spirit and bearer of good news.
Hummingbird brings comfort and healing.
(Artist: Nancy Dawson, Kwagiutlh)
Inukshuk
A direction sign that points the way in a land with few natural landmarks.
(Artist: Eric Lester, Inuit)
Kingfisher
Symbol of luck, patience, speed and agility.
(ARTIST: RICHARD SHORTY, SOUTHERN TUSHONY NATION)
Loon
The symbol of peace, mystique and tranquility.
(Artist: Fred Moyer, Tahltan)
Man Mask
Also called “Portrait Mask”, it is used in elaborate dance ceremonies
to portray certain characteristics of one’s personality.
(Artist: Corey Bulpitt, Haida)
Moon
Moon watches over us and is the protector and guardian of the Earth.
Moon is the keeper of time and has the ability to change our moods.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
orca WHALE
orca WHALE is the guardian of the sea and the symbol of longevity.
IT is a guide and close relation to humankind.
(Artist: Corrine Hunt, Komoyue and Tlingit)
Otter
Trusting, inquisitive and bright, Otter symbolizes loyal friendship.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Owl
Owl is the link to the spirit world. Owl is the traveler by night,
the silent knowledgeable one.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Potlatch Spoon
Symbol of the potlatch spirit – the spirit of sharing, giving and nurturing.
(Artist: Brent Campbell, Kwagiulth)
Raven
Raven is the transformer, the Creator. It is the symbol of knowledge and wisdom, the most important creature who can make anything happen.
(Artist: Fred Moyer, Tahltan)
Salmon
Salmon is the source of life and provider of food.
Salmon represents fertility and good health. Humans depend upon Salmon greatly.
(Artist: Richard Shorty, Southern Tushony Nation)
Seal
Seal represents a bright, inquisitive and organized nature.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiutlh)
Shaman
Spiritual guide, healer. Often the most respected and wisest person of the clan,
the Shaman is the doctor, priest and counselor all in one.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Sisiutl
Double headed sea creature. Most powerful of the health symbols.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Sun
Sun is the source of power, including creative power.
It is the Earth’s healing energy, connected to Earth by Sun’s long rays.
(Artist: Vincent Henson, Kwa kwa k’wak)
Thunderbird
Most powerful of all symbols that personifies the “chief” and symbolizes strength and respect. Thunderbird controls the thunder.
(Artist: Fred Moyer, Tahltan)
Tsonokwa
Giant mythological being of the forest. Bringer of wealth and good fortune.
(Artist: Benita Wadhams, Kwagiulth)
Wolf
The smart hunter and provider, symbolizing family and togetherness –
one of the few creatures that mates for life.
(Artist: Fred Moyer, Tahltan)