Mastering Totem Pole Carving: Eric Schweig's Inspiring Apprenticeship with Gerry Sheena - Interview

This video features how veteran Salish carver Gerry Sheena, with more than 30 years of experience, is apprenticing his friend Eric Schweig in crafting contemporary totem poles as part of the Friends United Artists in Residence (AiR) program.
Following the carving process video, short excerpts of a conversation between Friends United Founder Rolf Bouman and Eric can be viewed, which explains much more about the AiR program at Friends United.
Eric has been an essential presence at the Friends United International Convention Centre for a long time. He not only mentors children and teenagers, but he also holds presentations and speeches at universities for students. This is particularly important as Eric shares the very important stories of his difficult childhood as an adopted Indigenous child. Eric often speaks of the challenges arising from his adoption and shares, at the same time, incredible stories of hope as he eventually experienced great success as an actor and artist. He worked hard for everything he has accomplished.
Eric is an accomplished actor, known widely for his roles in Last of the Mohicans, Squanto, Big Eden, and the current Crave hit show Little Bird. He also writes film scripts, is an accomplished Inuit mask carver, and a traditional knife maker.

[@LibbyAnson-kg5px]

I’ve been inspired by Eric’s resilience in spite of so much adversity. I’m an art therapist and remember writing to him in the early 2000’s to let him know that he was using his art in a very art therapy sort of way for himself and with children. I’m so glad to see that he continues to stay close to his art in so many ways. No one can ever take that away from him!!! Beautiful totem pole!!

[@LilianSilva-wr1uw]

Beauty and emotion. As if the sculpture was already inside the tree. All done by hand. Incredible details and cuts. Using tools with recycled material. Showing that the way is to get closer to nature with respect. Eric and Gerry thank you for showing this art bringing beauty and joy to the eyes. Much peace and a big hug from Brazil 😊

[@user-dj2ci1kp8d]

I have much respect for traditional craftsman and find it interesting how other artists create their works and continue their traditions.

[@stellasimatou2073]

Keep doing what you are doing. Congratulations and a big hug from Greece.!!!!!!!❤❤❤

[@user-ny4kv4yr1g]

Siempre Agradable y Simpatico❤

[@reneemariehighsmith5463]

❤️❤️❤️🌹👏

[@leahanderson8179]

Hi Eric it's been a minute or ten I met you in Toronto at the friendship center you asked me to be your trainer for your movie last of the Mohican s.now IL ask if you can train me in the way of totem poles❤😂😊please

[@lilianoliveira7094]

Gostei 👏👏👏👏