The tension mounts; all conversation falls silent at once and everyone’s gaze is fixed on the totem pole. We hold our breath as the crane begins to move and the strap around the trunk tightens. Captivated by the spectacle, numerous passers-by stop in their tracks and pull out their cameras or mobile phones.
Bit by bit, the totem pole approaches its foundation in the form of a steel base. Under the watchful eyes of Harold Joe and George Rice, the pole is lowered very slowly and carefully into place. It fits! The construction of the stand is perfect. A satisfied “ahh” ripples through the crowd. Now the painstaking work of the last six weeks is revealed in all its glory, and all the hard work and effort have paid off.
So much for the emotions we can perceive from the outside. But what are the Native Americans feeling on the inside in this situation?!
Harold Joe: “At the start, you’re very emotional; you just want to get on with the carving. It’s motivating to see the totem pole grow over time; we just want to see it through to the end. I’ve already helped erect 15 totem poles in Canada, and it always gives me the same feeling. Whilst carving, you’re at one with the totem pole, and once it’s finished, that harmony disappears.”
George Rice: “I’m feeling all sorts of positive emotions! I’m very happy that the totem pole is finished. I think I’ll miss the connection with the people. It’s been a very good learning experience for me here in Cologne. Huy’cha ga!”
We are delighted that the plan is going exactly as intended and would like to thank Klaus Weichbrodt, branch manager of Globetrotter Ausrüstung in Cologne, Prof. Dr Klaus Schneider, director of the Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum, and Kai Andersch, CEO of Wilderness International. They initiated the totem pole project and inspired everyone with their visionary carving concept.
To keep the excitement and anticipation for the totem pole alive until the ceremonial unveiling on Saturday, it has been covered with a specially made cloth. Everything has gone to plan – now we’re ready for the big day.
Greetings from Cologne, Anne and Theresa