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Primary Colors The basic colors from which all colors are mixed; red, yellow & blue. No other colors can be mixed to make primary colors.

Secondary Colors A color created by mixing two primary colors together in equal parts: green, violet & orange.

Intermediate (tertiary) Colors A color mixed from a primary and secondary color.

Totem Poles in the Pacific NW Totem poles are an ancient tradition of the Indian tribes of the Pacific Northwest Coast--Washington state in the USA, British Columbia in Canada--and some tribes of southern Alaska. Today, both short and tall totem poles are still made by Northwestern and Alaskan Indian artists, and they can be purchased--for a price. This is probably the single most expensive native art form there is, given the cost of a full-grown cedar tree and the amount of hand- carving and painting required to turn it into a totem pole.

The meanings of the designs are varied: recount familiar legends, clan lineages, or notable events. Some poles celebrate cultural beliefs, but others are mostly artistic presentations. The vertical order of images is widely believed to be a significant representation of importance. This idea is so pervasive that it has entered into common parlance with the phrase "low man on the totem pole."

Examples of Totem Poles

Beaver: Their upturned tails are a symbol of wealth. Creative, artistic and determined creature who can construct fine arrows. Beavers are also vengeful creatures who hate humans. Never say anything bad about the beaver.

Wolf: Intelligence, leadership. Wolves are able to heal human sickness but this healing is costly so they generally avoid human contact.

Bear: Bears must not be insulted or cursed. Similar in appearance to wolves but with large nostrils and paws, sharp fangs, high forehead and frequently a protruding tongue. Ferocity, strength, humility, motherhood, teaching.

Eagle: Aristocratic lord of the Sky Realm, the eagle is a common clan symbol. Great strength, courage leadership and prestige. Signifies peace and friendship. Eagle Feathers are considered good luck to both giver and receiver.

Raven: Spiritual attributes knowledge and a bringer of light. According to lore, the raven stole the light from an old chief when the world was dark, therefore it is frequently shown holding an orb in its large, protruding beak. An important symbol, the raven common in totem pole carvings. The raven can transform into other forms, is a trickster, always hungry, curious, devious, and corrupt. It always gets into trouble but because it is so likeable it can easily get out of trouble. The raven is easily identified by a straight beak.

People: Totem pole carvings tell the stories of the people who own the totem pole. Individuals can be family members, chiefs, wives, children, etc. People play a primary part in totem pole stories and creation. Totem poles tell the life stories and history of the people who own the poles.

Sun or Sun God: Spiritual attributes include healing energy. The Sun God is considered to be the guardian of the Earth by day and is portrayed is portrayed as a big circle with rays emanating form a face with a big hooked nose.

Frog: Spiritual attributes include spring, new life, communicator and stability. The frog is a misunderstood and underestimated creature but also a symbol of wealth. Never insult a frog.

Whale or Orca: Spiritual attributes include goodness and having the ability to share the wisdom of the ages. Whales are rulers of the Underwater Realm where they live with other noble supernatural beings. Some whales can turn into wolves and walk on land.

Octopus or Devilfish: Feared for its ability to grab people and drag them underwater. Attributes include bird like head, hooked beak, suction plates and tentacles.