“Ravens and Eagles, Robert Davidson: Eagle of the Dawn, Part 1 & 2” Series 1 Episode 10 & 11

One of the most intriguing contemporary artists of his generation, Robert Davidson stands apart internationally with his innovative and staggering output of high art. In his quest to make beautiful objects, Robert has inspired a new approach to Haida art, becoming a master of several media and pursuing a lofty cultural objective. After raising the first totem pole in Haida Gwaii in 1967, Robert began to learn many of the Haida songs and dances existing on record. This remarkable work has spurred Haida dance groups up and down the Pacific coast. Robert returns to his early years and reveals the direct and indirect influences of his Nonnie (grandmother in Haida), Florence Edenshaw Davidson, the daughter of the 20th century master Charles Edenshaw. She became an unsuspecting player in Robert's evolution as an artist, inspiring him long after her passing. Robert Davidson: The Eagle of the Dawn is a rare portrait of one of the great masters of contemporary art.

Shot on British Columbia's rugged northwest coast, Ravens and Eagles: Haida Art delves into the roots of traditional Haida art and traces the genesis of today's generation of Haida carvers, singers, dancers, weavers and performers. Over two series, Ravens and Eagles explores some of the wider historical and political issues of the repatriation of Haida artifacts, the vital potlatch ceremony once declared illegal by the Canadian government, and the fight to preserve old growth forest on Haida land. Created by Haida filmmaker Marianne Jones and Jeff Bear, Ravens and Eagles approaches Haida art and culture from the Haida perspective.

Produced by: Jeff Bear, Marianne Jones, Ravens and Eagles Productions