•A National Treasure •Tame Your Temper •Diet Mistakes

He continued to research his culture and to find out as much as
he could about the life he might have lived. As he learned the
stories, legends and the caricatures of his people it became his
personal calling to help capture them and to keep them alive in
wood and paintings. Again he carved obsessively but this time
his tools seemed to know what was expected and the wood
melted away revealing traditional images.
He began to show his work and to tell people the stories that
were becoming his own. It wasn't long until his reputation as a
carver grew and he was approached by First Nations elders
who wanted to buy pieces. He says his work is a respectful
combination of the traditions of Coast Salish, Haida, and
Kwakiutl coastal peoples. As a newcomer to the clan he was
humbled and honoured by their acceptance. Alfie says he does
not know where many of his images come from. His hands, the
wood and the tools seem to conspire to discover the heart of a
piece. He feels privileged to have these opportunities.
Again, that could have been the end of the story but it's only
the beginning. Unexpectedly, Alfie has found himself to be a
bridge between communities and it is a calling that he takes
seriously. He has partnered with Todd Jamieson from the
Oneida reserve. Todd paints in the traditional Woodland style.
Together they introduce students to the myths, history, lore, and
current realities of our native neighbours. Working with school
boards, libraries and community groups they bring their art and
stories to help foster understanding between those of us
working to live together in Canada.
Alfie finds this work rewarding. "Kids ask questions that get right to the heart of the matter," he says with a
smile. They don't have any of the hang-ups that adults have. If they want to know something they just come
right out with it. He introduces his audiences to native art, culture and history. He lets them try their hand at
some of the images they learn about and builds a bridge for communication and learning. He hopes that his
humble efforts to give back to a community that's given him so much will bear fruit.
Alfie is carving out a new reality for himself and bringing us all along with him toward a world of
understanding. What is next for him? He isn't sure. But you can be certain that he is mindful of his dreams.
For more information about Alfie, his work or family totems go to www.Fishgap.com or
www.Spiritlures.com
Vicki Pinkerton lives on a small farm just outside of Mount Albert when she is not driving
the roads of Canada. She is a practicing life coach specializing in hope, a
writer and adventurer who wonders about many things. www.questacrosscanada.com
or lifelinescoaching.org
Where do you see community? What makes it work?
Let me know. Email info@thebulletinmagazine.com and put Circles in the subject line.
TheBulletinMagazine.com October 2011 33