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Joe Martin,Alan Hoover

Making a Chaputs: The Teachings and Responsibilities of a Canoe Maker

Making a Chaputs: The Teachings and Responsibilities of a Canoe Maker

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A dugout canoe is a visual testament to the practical and cultural power of the Northwest Coast. Joe Martin, a Tla-o-qui-aht master canoe maker, collaborates with Alan Hoover to describe the meaning and method behind the canoe, which carries Indigenous cultural knowledge passed down through generations. The text includes a step-by-step explanation of the canoe-making process and the personal histories of Joe's canoes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2022
Publisher: Royal British Columbia Museum


A rich visual testament to the practical and cultural power of the dugout canoe, this comprehensive and meticulously researched work offers a balanced and insightful exploration of its meaning and method. In collaboration with former museum curator Alan Hoover, renowned Tla-o-qui-aht master canoe maker Joe Martin delves into the profound significance and intricate craftsmanship behind one of the most iconic symbols of the Northwest Coast: the dugout canoe.

As both an artform and a technological marvel, the chaputs carry the rich cultural knowledge passed down through generations, encompassing not only the practical forestry and woodworking skills that shape every canoe but also the profound role and responsibilities of the canoe maker. The text provides a step-by-step explanation of the canoe-making process, from selecting the right tree to the final stages of construction, accompanied by detailed and dynamic illustrations that bring the process to life.

In addition to the technical aspects, the text also delves into the personal histories of several of Joe Martin's canoes, shedding light on their planning, creation, cultural significance, and their role in the process of reconciliation. Joe's words, recorded here in his own voice, serve as a testament to the teachings he received from his father and the expertise he has gained over a lifetime of canoe-making, ensuring that these traditions will be preserved for generations to come.

This captivating work not only offers a deep understanding of the dugout canoe's cultural and practical significance but also serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Indigenous craftsmanship and knowledge. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and art of the Northwest Coast, as well as for anyone who appreciates the beauty and complexity of traditional craftsmanship.


Dimension: 228 x 6 x 228 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780772680273

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