Two new Salish welcome figures have been installed in the passenger walkway of the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal, enhancing the terminal’s cultural landscape. These 10-foot-tall hand-carved red cedar welcome poles, crafted by Native American artist Andy Wilbur-Peterson, are titled “Crossing the Water” and aim to extend a warm welcome and safe travels to passengers. The designs intricately incorporate marine elements such as orcas and waves, and the male figure features a strawberry tattoo symbolizing the island’s renowned strawberries.
The artist, Andy Wilbur-Peterson, began his journey in carving at the age of nineteen after initially making baskets. Growing up in Shelton, Washington, he later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Native American Studies from Evergreen State College in Olympia. Andy has shared his skills through teaching carving and painting to various age groups across tribes and local schools. Together with his wife, Ruth Peterson, he operates a carving studio and gallery in Skokomish, Washington.
According to Washington State Ferry (WSF), collaboration with federally recognized tribes is a priority, ensuring that tribal cultural design elements enrich terminal projects. These artistic pieces not only beautify the facilities but also perpetuate the deeper cultural stories and histories of Native American tribes in the Salish Sea region. The story poles serve as a reminder that the customs and presence of local tribes continue to thrive, respecting and honoring the treaties in place.
The narrative behind the poles, shared by Ruth Peterson, recounts a time when humans, bestowed with the power to rule the land, sought to traverse the water. They fashioned a canoe, discovered life in the waters, and brought back salmon and octopus to nourish everyone on the other side. In gratitude, Eagle provided feathers for distant travel, while Salmon and Octopus endowed humans with the ease and strength to cross waters and reach their desired destinations. These poles embody the belief in the human capacity to travel with strength, protection, and inner power.
For those interested in viewing the installation process and unveiling of these welcome poles, the Washington State Ferries Facebook page offers an insightful glimpse.
Your Takeaway
The installation of the Salish welcome figures at the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal signifies more than just an artistic addition. It reflects a blend of cultural heritage and modern transit spaces, bridging history with contemporary public structures. For regular commuters and travelers, these figures offer a moment of reflection on the rich cultural narratives that have shaped the region. By honoring Native American traditions, the ferry terminal not only fosters greater cultural awareness but also enhances the travel experience with a unique sense of place and identity.
Moreover, this initiative underscores the importance of integrating indigenous cultural elements into public infrastructure, promoting cultural inclusivity and recognition. Such installations can inspire communities to embrace diversity and acknowledge the historical and ongoing contributions of Native American tribes. As these stories become a part of everyday journeys, they foster a deeper understanding and respect for the cultural landscapes that define the area, ultimately enriching the communal journey through shared history and values.
