Luke Marston has carved a totem pole to promote harmony between all people.

The original creation, a contemporary twist on Coast Salish tradition, is to be unveiled today (Sept. 25) during a ceremony at Government House in Victoria.

Marston is one of four First Nation artists commissioned to create pieces by the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation and the First People’s Heritage, Language and Culture Council.

With support from Lt.-Gov. Steven Point, the project’s overall aim is to enhance Government House’s collection of aboriginal art.

Marston, a Stz’uminus (Chemainus) First Nation member, carved the piece from western red cedar. Called the Healing Pole, it stands almost five metres tall.

The design features the figure of a shaman who is joined by two spirit helpers — a frog and an owl.

B.C.’s lieutenant-governor provided some input on the four projects. He suggested the artists incorporate the theme of uniting communities.

“That’s why I put a shaman on there, because I believe that in order to bridge a gap between these nations, or between all people, there has to be healing first,” said Marston, who was raised in a family of Native carvers.

The 32-year-old from Saltair put finishing touches on the totem pole earlier this week inside a Kulleet Bay studio. He emphasized the importance of preserving Coast Salish culture.

With help from family and friends, Marston did the bulk of the work during the past several months. He said Point approved when he caught a glimpse of the unfinished totem pole.

After the call for art proposals went out, a panel of First Nation artists reviewed 29 submissions. Marston was selected to create the primary piece.

Cathi Charles Wherry, with the First People’s Heritage, Language and Culture Council, said the works will join Government House’s permanent collection.

“They speak to notions of reconciliation, building bridges, working together and moving into the future, that sort of thing,” she said.

Wherry lauded Marston’s past artistic accomplishments as well as the new totem pole.

“It’s beautiful. I saw it a few weeks ago. I’m thrilled. He’s such a talented artist,” she said.

“He’s a very professional, very talented, creative artist.”

Marston and the other artists are expected to present their finished works to the lieutenant-governor during a ceremony in the Government House ballroom. Organizers plan to install the Healing Pole outside on the grounds during a later event.