Customised totem poles are storytelling statues that embody identity, heritage, and values into works of art. Customised totem poles have historically been connected to the art of the Pacific Northwest cultures, but they are now being created worldwide as a means of art that communicates effectively. Customised totem poles are a means of storytelling that transcends the use of words, as they are created with a focus on symbolism. Check out the five points in the blog below that showcase the increasing desire for commissioned totem pole work in the UK.
Everything You Need to Learn About the Totem Pole
Increasing Popularity of Totem Poles
There has been a growing interest in the totem pole within the UK over the past few years, especially when it comes to public art, cultural centres, and heritage projects. Councils, organisations, and institutions are adopting custom totem poles as a symbol of identity, unity, and shared values. Unlike other artworks that are cast in large numbers, custom-made totemic columns are designed specifically with the intention of portraying particular stories. In the UK, they are usually employed as a means of commemorating particular historical events or celebrating community successes and particular sites of importance.
Storytelling Through Symbolism & Design
However, within every customised totem pole, there is a narrative. Each character, animal, or symbol that has been chiselled on a totem pole has significance, embodying various values such as power, knowledge, protection, or authority. For a totem pole, the symbols will be modified to suit the local heritage and tradition. Companies will use the company values, while communities will use the shared history or shared future. The design process will ensure that the artwork will be aesthetically attractive and will also convey a deep meaning.
Custom-made Totem Poles for Brands and Organisations
Increasing numbers of UK companies are opting for personalised totem poles as an innovative branding strategy. As opposed to more conventional signs and logos, personalised totem poles convey a story that is remembered by everyone who visits the business. A totem pole can represent the mission and value foundations of an organisation when installed in the UK in the corporate headquarters of a company, an establishment like a hotel, or even an information point. A great way for brands in the UK to differentiate themselves amidst competition.
Craftsmanship, Materials, and Sustainability
Custom-made totem poles can be identified because of their craftsmanship. Artisans carved custom-made pieces for a high level of precision and artistic integrity. In the UK, there is a big emphasis on sustainable methods, with sustainable timber used for custom-made totem poles. When a totem pole is commissioned in the UK, it can often entail a collaborative process between the client and artist from concept drawings through to completion. This way, the final structure is ensured to be long-lasting, not only physically but also meaningfully, and within set environmental guidelines.
Creating Lasting Cultural and Community Impact
Apart from aesthetic perspectives, a custom-made totem pole has a long-lasting influence on the space where it exists. They become a centre of contemplation, discussion, and connectivity. Within parks, learning institutions, and cultural institutions, a totem pole in a UK setting may be a learning piece where visitors are educated on values, stories, and experiences. Within communities, these poles instil a sense of pride and ownership. In an organisational setting, these poles convey purpose and legacy. Soon, custom-made totem poles developed into landmarks valued by communities.
An Art That Tells a Story
Whatever the reason for which they are commissioned, bespoke totem poles are more than decorative sculptures in terms of their ability to recount stories, brands, or values through works of art. With increased interest in the concept of the totem pole in the UK, bespoke sculptures are again relevant. A custom totem pole, whether commissioned by a corporation, community, or as a personal vision, has a profound and always relevant way of expressing identity and making a lasting cultural statement. Here at Peter Leadbeater Designs, we specialise in this sector and have extensive experience installing totem poles. Call us today to learn more about our services.