Simon Charlie facts for kids

Simon Charlie (also known as Hwunumetse) was a famous Canadian artist from the Cowichan Tribes (part of the Coast Salish nation). He lived from 1919 to 2005 and was well-known for his amazing wood carvings, especially his totem poles. Simon Charlie was born in Koksilah, a small place on Vancouver Island, near Duncan, British Columbia.

Learning to Carve

Simon Charlie learned his carving skills from a famous artist named Henry Hunt. He trained at the Provincial Museum of British Columbia. Even though Henry Hunt carved totem poles, which were not always a traditional art form for the Coast Salish people, Simon Charlie made sure to follow the carving style of his own Salish traditions.

His Unique Style

Simon Charlie was known for deeply understanding the language, history, and stories of his Cowichan people. This knowledge inspired his art. He used a special tool called an adze to create a unique textured look on his carvings. This texture became a signature part of his artistic style.

He loved to stick to the traditional look of Coast Salish art. However, he also liked to try new ideas and ways of expressing himself through his carvings. Many people say that Simon Charlie helped bring back and strengthen the Coast Salish art traditions.

For example, he once explained how old stories from the Hul'qumi'num language (spoken by the Cowichan tribe) helped him design a totem pole for Qualicum Beach. This pole featured an eagle, a dog salmon, a bear, and a traditional Salish Swaixwhe mask.

Teaching Others

Simon Charlie didn't just create art; he also shared his knowledge. He taught several other Coast Salish artists, including Jane Marston, Luke Marston, and John Marston. He was also the father of Arvid Charlie, who is a respected elder in the Cowichan community.

Awards and Exhibitions

Simon Charlie received many important awards for his incredible work. These included:

• The Canadian Centennial Medal (in 1967)
• The Order of British Columbia (in 2001)
• The Order of Canada (in 2003)

Many of his totem poles can be seen in museums and public places. You can find his art at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria and even in the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa. The City of Duncan has several of his totem poles in its collection, including three at the center court of the Duncan Mall. His artwork is also displayed in museums and private collections in the United States, Europe, and Australia.