The Cultural Resource Management Program is offering a short
intensive course in early October that examines boththe cultural
and physical considerations in caring for totem poles. It will
take place on-campus at the University of Victora and wil
include site visits to a variety of poles in the Victoria area.
It has the following course description:
 
CARING FOR TOTEM POLES
The northwest coast totem pole conveys a sense of strength
and permanence which often belies its fragile nature.
Like all monumental wooden objects, totem poles are subject
to a variety of inherent weaknesses and external threats that
require specialized and regular care.
 
This four-day immersion course examines the physical and cultural
characteristics of totem poles, and provides preventive
maintenance strategies and guidelines for conservation treatments.
The following topics will be addressed through lectures, workshops
 and field trips:
- cultural considerations in the presentation, handling and
conservation of totem poles
- cross cultural issues in conservation
- the art and craft of totem pole carving
- factors in the deterioration of totem poles
- examination and documentation of condition
- preventive conservation and maintenance strategies
- prescribing treatments and working with conservators
- approaches to handling and moving
- support systems
 
Instructor: Andrew Todd is a conservator who specializes in the
conservation of outdoor sculpture; Gloria Cranmer Webster is
the former Curator/Director of the U'mista Cultural Centre. She
now works as a consultant in the management of aboriginal
collections.
 
Date of Event: October 3 - 6, 1994
 
Fees: (Canadian Funds)  $360
 
Please let me know if you'd like to receive more information or
registration materials.
 
 
Joy Davis
Cultural Resource Management Program
University of Victoria
604-721-8462
FAx 604-721-8774
email  [log in to unmask]