Gateway to Ancient Wisdom
Discover North Vancouver's Public Art & Culture Scene
Standing at the threshold of Squamish Nation land near Mosquito Creek Marina, Gateway to Ancient Wisdom welcomes visitors into territory with strength, symbolism, and storytelling. This striking sculpture, crafted in stainless steel and red cedar, reflects the traditional architecture of Coast Salish Big Houses, where carved houseposts marked the entrance and preserved family histories through art and story.
Two Thunderbirds frame the gateway, representing a male and female chief. Together they embody balance in leadership while also mirroring the Twin Sisters (North Shore Mountains). In Coast Salish teachings, Thunderbird is one of the most powerful beings—able to fly to the sun and back, bringing ancient knowledge from the Creator.
This work speaks to a return to teachings and wisdom that risk being lost in the modern industrial era, grounding visitors in the enduring philosophies of the Squamish people as they step onto this land.
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Female Welcome Figure
First Welcome Trail
In Musqueam culture, Welcome Figures welcome visitors to our territory. The original poles were house posts and placed at the entrances of our house - right at the doorway inviting you in, welcoming you. Located behind the Vancouver School Board in public plaza.
Serpent Slayer - Welcome Pole
Public Art
At Belcarra Regional Park, on the shores of Burrard Inlet, stands a welcome pole carved by Tsleil-Waututh master carver TsuKwalton (Jonas Jones). It carries one of the Nation's most powerful origin stories — of a young boy swept away by seals, raised in the sea kingdom, and returned to his people as a warrior who could face what no one else could. This is his territory. This is where that story happened. The pole brings it back to the shore where it belongs.
“Return of the Orca” Welcome pole
Public Art
Return of the Orca” Welcome pole at Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park) in North Vancouver, carved by TsuKwalton Jonas Jones. the Return of the Orca carries the story of Great Chief wacəq II, whose deep relationship with the salmon and the natural world continues to guide Tsleil-Waututh teachings today.
