The life, times and art of Cowichan’s late master-carver Simon Charlie (Hwunumetsé) will be celebrated during Saturday’s gathering in Duncan.

“They’ll be showing his picture for the first time since he passed away,” friend Joey Caro said of Charlie who died of leukemia May 3, 2005.

He was 85.

The legendary artist and teacher helped launch a drive to preserve the Coast Salish art style as told through stories and legends.

Carver Jane Marston and her family worked closely with the Order of Canada and Order of B.C. holder.

“It’s a Native cultural practice to wait for four years before showing a picture of the deceased,” she explained.

“We put all of their pictures away out of respect for the person who’s passed on, and for those grieving.

“Four pertains to the four seasons. Four is a sacred number for our people.

“I lift my hands up to Simon’s family for doing this memorial.

“His legacy is still really strong.”

So is the image of Charlie’s wide grin.

“Now we can open up that smile to the world again,” said Caro.

“What I remember most is Simon’s friendliness and how he was down to earth.

“He was just open to everyone, from professionals to regular guys on the street.

“Simon was really approachable with so much knowledge. He had work displayed around the world but he was so humble.”

Charlie’s cedar totem poles span Ottawa’s Parliament grounds to the Cowichan Library, the Royal B.C. Museum and McDonalds’ Chicago headquarters.

“He trained and taught people and we should pay tribute to him,” Caro said, citing Frances Horne, Joe Jack, Joe Wilson, Joe LaFortune and others.

Niece Katie Phillips also learned to carve through Charlie and wants his contributions remembered.

“Simon was an encyclopedia of names, stories, and legends.

“It’s our custom to have a celebration for their memory and I imagine the gym will be packed.”

Charlie’s family decided which photo to show, she said.

“Simon is still a great man even though he’s passed on.

“He’s an important artist and many artists developed their skills with him as their teacher.

“Despite his success and renown he remained humble and proud of his culture and his people.”

Your ticket:

What: Simon Charlie memorial

When: July 11, noon

Where: Cowichan Tribes Si’em Lelum Gym, behind the Mound, Duncan