Hummingbird - Silver Pendant with 14k Gold
Hummingbird - Silver Pendant with 14k Gold
2 3/8" x 1 1/8"
Chain not included.
This piece is part of the exhibition ‘Growing Together: Themes of Nurturing in Northwest Coast Silver Jewellery’ held at Lattimer Gallery between September 22 - October 6, 2023.
"Hummingbirds are known for their elaborate courtship display, and for being careful caregivers after mating. The male performs for the female, who chooses her mate, and then they build a nest together. They can raise two broods per season, and the babies can fly just 21 days after birth. In Northwest coast Native ancient stories, the Hummingbird is a symbol of healing."
-David Neel
David Neel
CULTURAL GROUP:
Kwakwaka'wakw
BORN:
April 7, 1960
BIRTHPLACE:
Vancouver, BC
David Neel's crests are Thunderbird and Killerwhale. He comes from a family that is rich in history and artistic skill. His father is Dave Neel Sr., his great uncle is acclaimed artist Mungo Martin, his great-great-great grandfather is Charlie James, and his grandmother is renowned artist Ellen Neel. His widely exhibited work includes jewellery, masks, drums, poles, original paintings, limited edition prints, glass etching, regalia, and photos appearing in several magazines. David's formal training in Fine Arts was at the University of Kansas and at Mount Royal College, Alberta. Following a career as a professional photographer in Texas, David returned to Canada in the early 1990s, and conceived two important projects: one documenting works and images of First Nations elders, and the other promoting the revival of the Northwest Coast great dugout canoe. David's talents are diverse, and he is dedicated to promoting and preserving his Kwakwaka'wakw heritage. In 2019, he was featured in the landmark publication Understanding Northwest Coast Indigenous Jewelry by author Alex Dawkins. In 2020, he published his own book titled The Way Home which was nominated for the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Nonfiction.
