Wave Dancer

Giclee

Edition 99

Released June 2004

Primary: Available
A/P: Available

Appearing from out of nowhere, dolphins will often approach a boat and proceed to jump and play in the waves off its prow. They will dance at these waves, enjoying the thrill and presenting you with an ever-present grin. They will take turns jumping one after the other, all the while keeping pace with the vessel. It is one of the joys of boating that dolphins will follow you and act as your aquatic travel companion. There isn’t much better than traveling through the beautiful waters of Johnstone Strait, looking at the rugged coastline, fast-flowing narrows and a pair of wave dancers off your prow.

Traveling in canoes on the Northwest Coast 200 years ago was no different. Dolphins were ever-faithful companions dancing on the breaking water. In Kwakwaka’wakw tradition, my ancestors totally trusted the dolphin. It was seen as a reassurance to know that the dolphins were following the people embarking on a long canoe journey. My grandmother used to say that dolphins were like “lifeguards” in their vigilance in watching over a group of travelers. She said that they were known to have saved people after their canoe had tipped over into the frigid waters. They would keep them afloat and their heads above water—especially the children. She also said that the Kwakwaka’wakw believed that the dolphin was one of the creatures that could transport people between the land world and the undersea world.

“Wave Dancer” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in June of 2004 and printed by Andy Everson at the artist’s own studio in Comox B.C. A total of 109 prints bear the title “Wave Dancer” and are signed by Andy Everson: 99 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/99 through 99/99; 9 Artist’s Proofs; and 1 Printer’s Proof. The acid-free mould-made Albrecht Dürer paper measures 13x19 inches. Image size measures about 11.5x14 inches.