GONAKADET

GONAKADET (2024)
Woodcut, acrylic paint, 63 x 53 x 4 cm

The Gonakadet, commonly referred to as the Sea-Wolf, is a mythical creature in the Tlingit tradition of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America. Simultaneously strong, generous and humble, the Sea-Wolf was said to bring great luck and wealth to anyone fortunate enough to spy it, or hear its soulful howl.

Gonakadet is said to be inspired by the Vancouver coastal sea wolves, which are found in the Great Bear Rainforest and in northern Vancouver Island.

This work was specifically created for the exhibition ULVEN+ at Galerie Wolfsen, Aalborg. Opening of the exhibition is Saturday, June 22. It is also the celebration of the 60’s birthday of gallery founder Kent Wolfsen. A great gallerist always has some Gonakadet in her/him - Kent for sure does.

PS: Sound samples used in the video above are from Pigeon Hole’s „Wolf Pack“ and „The Island of the Sea Wolves“, spoken by Will Arnett