Totem poles have a lot of different meanings, depending on the culture to which they belong. They can be used to recall legends and traditions, celebrate certain individuals or events, act as mortuary structures, represent spiritual beliefs, or simply be forms of artistic expression (all this according to totem-pole.net). The poles were not, however, used for idol worship. Since totem poles are almost always made out of wood, they eventually rot and decay, which is why there is no existing pole prior to 1800.
Apparently there are two main styles of totem poles. There is the "Northern Style," which is characterized by red, black, and turquoise color schemes. The "Southern Style" is more intricate, employing black, red, green, yellow, white, and turquoise, as well as carvings of crest figures and detailed thunderbirds. Cool, eh?
Now for pictures!!!
The following is my very favorite find. Designers Tine Winther Rysgaard and Trine Maja Kristoffersen released a fashion collection in Copenhagen inspired by the totem pole. I think the collection is genius. Here are just a few pictures from their show.
Next up: cool stacking mugs, furniture, and interior totem design.
Aren't those some crazy chairs? I think they look pretty uncomfortable. But the structure is cool.
If I had to have a totem pole in my house, I would choose one like this. Small and simple, but still cool and rustic looking.
Well that's it for today's random inspiration! Lesson learned: totem poles are cool.
