Wolves hold a complex and nuanced place in the mythology and cultural beliefs of many Indigenous peoples, including those of the Northwest Coast. Revered for their intelligence, loyalty, and hunting prowess, wolves are also regarded with a sense of awe and sometimes fear due to their perceived supernatural powers.
In Northwest Coast Indigenous art, the wolf is often depicted as a symbol of family lineage and ancestral connection. Its portrayal typically includes distinctive features such as high-standing ears, an elongated snout, and in some designs, a protruding tongue and snarl marks flanking the nose. These visual elements not only capture the physical characteristics of the wolf but also convey its spiritual significance and power within Indigenous cosmology.
Through art, storytelling, and ceremonial practices, the wolf serves as a potent symbol of strength, resilience, and kinship, embodying the enduring spirit of Indigenous communities and their deep relationship with the natural world.
