A Cedar Is Life

Follow the journey of Archeological Consultant and Cultural Worker Harold C. Joe as he discovers more about the cedar. 

Through interviews with elders, mask carvers, medicinal harvesters, canoe makers, totem carvers, cedar bark weavers, those working with traditional food and cooking, and other hands-on practitioners along the West Coast, from Cowichan to Haida Gwaii, who speak about their crafts, we learn how all parts of the tree are important and useful.

Woven throughout the interviews is the image of Cedar Woman, based on a Cowichan legend, highlighting the importance of cedar’s spirit, existing as a living entity. The film investigates the evolution of artistic practice, comparing modern techniques and traditional methods, while highlighting the importance of protecting cedar trees. Cedars bridge cultural gaps today, Passing down knowledge to the next generation is essential to promote cultural strength in Indigenous communities.