The raven, one smart bird, has been a prominent actor in many Native American myths and legends.

I live in the Pacific Northwest and have a great respect for the art and artifacts created by the indigenous people of this area. I have had the privilege of seeing many totems first-hand. This particular totem was carved by Willie Seaweed, a Kwakiutl, in 1931. The pole stands in Alert Bay, off Vancouver Island. Topping the pole is a thunderbird, a mythical creature resembling an eagle.

What I like best about it is the symbolism. The Kwakiutl connect their art with nature and with their religion. They - and we, and the raven and thunderbird - are all kindred spirits.

- Terry Isaac