September 5, 2018 - National Geographic Venture
What an incredible day we spent immersed in the local culture and history at Old Masset on the island of Haida Gwaii. We were immediately welcomed into the homes and lives of native Haida, local artists, expert carvers, dancers, and chiefs. Jim Hart shared with us his passion for carving and his plans for projects in the process of becoming finished works. Christian White led us into his workshop where ornate canoes rested, workbenches were full of worn tools, and poles were coming to life with form-line designs and crests.
The afternoon came to its crescendo with a bountiful feast of native foods including herring roe, salmon, fry bread, fish chowder, sea asparagus, and soap berries with cream for dessert. Talented performers gave everyone a feel for what a potlach would look and feel like, and many guests were invited to join in on the dancing. It was such a privilege to learn directly from the Haida people through the magical experiences of storytelling, feasting, dancing, and laughing.
Text and photos by Emily Newton, Undersea Specialist
Link to full article on Lindblad-National Geographic website:
https://www.expeditions.com/daily-expedition-reports/186828/
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