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Carvers of the totem poles
Bill Reid spent his life confronting public opinion. The artist, who was of Haida and European descent, was largely credited with inspiring a Haida renaissance with his masterful works of art. Some viewed Reid as a curiosity – an artist who navigated his way through two dissimilar worlds. Others viewed him with a more cynical eye and criticized him as a mimic with manufactured ties to the Haida community. CBC Archives explores the esteemed, influential and at times controversial career of Bill Reid.
But in the meantime, Reid's two passions of art and broadcasting are colliding. In various CBC Radio and Television specials, Reid acts as the unofficial spokesman on Haida art and culture. In this clip, Reid praises the Haida carvers' unparalleled virtuosity.
. Historically, totem poles were emblems of wealth and told stories of privilege about a family. But in 1884, the Canadian government banned the Potlatch, a ceremonial party that accompanied the raising of a totem pole. Increasingly, because of the pressure to assimilate into Canadian society, carving skills were lost on subsequent generations.
Program: CBC Radio Special
Broadcast Date: Nov. 1, 1957
Guest(s):
Host: Bill Reid
Duration: 14:17
Last updated: April 3, 2012
Page consulted on March 7, 2013
All Clips from this Topic
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Bill Reid showcases Haida Art on CBC Television.
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Bill Reid explains the history and significance of the Queen Charlotte...
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Reid participates in a salvage expedition to rescue decaying Haida art...
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In the centre of the forest, Reid unveils a tribute to the lost Haida ...
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A new pole is raised in Skidegate, B.C.
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Bill Reid discusses the different influences on his art.
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Bill Reid talks about his life, his two careers, and aversion to fame.
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While building the Expo 86 boat, Bill Reid struggles with materials.
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Reid's art is warmly received in Paris at the Museum of Man.
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Bill Reid unveils the Spirit of Haida Gwaii at the Canadian Embassy.
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Friends and associates describe the complex personality of Bill Reid.
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Despite being slowed with Parkinson's disease, Reid remains a consumma...
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The raven, the bear, the frog and the dogfish woman coexist uncomforta...
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At the age of 78, Bill Reid passes away.
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A controversial Maclean's article makes some startling accusations aga...
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Bill Reid spent his life confronting public opinion. The artist, who w...