The Town of Comox is proud to announce that Karver Everson, Pentlatch, K’ómoks band member and Kwakwaka’wakw artist and carver, has been selected to carve a totem pole for the Glacier View Roundabout following a call for Expressions of Interest issued in fall 2025.
The Glacier View Roundabout is a highly visible gateway at the top of Comox Hill. The installation of an Indigenous-carved totem pole in this location is a unique opportunity to celebrate K’ómoks culture, teachings, and connection to the land through an enduring artistic presence that will welcome residents and visitors alike.
Karver Everson is a proud cultural carrier for his people and was born in the Comox Valley. He carries the Kwak̓wala name Długwayaxa̱lis, from the Gigal’gam of the Walas Kwagu’ł. His work is deeply rooted in ancestral teachings and shaped by his family's strong artistic and cultural traditions.
His journey as an artist began early, and in 2013, he was called upon to carve ceremonial pieces for a family potlatch—an experience that solidified his lifelong commitment to his culture’s art forms. Since then, Karver has contributed to numerous significant monumental pole projects in the Comox Valley and beyond. These include two welcome figures for the Village of Cumberland, K’ómoks First Nation–initiated projects, a Guardian Pole for the City of Courtenay’s Airpark Trail, and a Guardian Pole at Helliwell Park on Hornby Island, among others.
“This new totem pole will stand as a powerful symbol of local indigenous history and identity as you are welcomed to the community,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. “It’s a reflection of the Town’s continued commitment to reconciliation and to creating public spaces that educate and provide a connection to Indigenous knowledge, artistry and tradition.”
The totem pole Karver will design and carve, and support through installation, will take approximately eight months to complete. A community celebration and official unveiling are being planned for the fall of 2026.
More information about the totem pole design and unveiling will be shared closer to installation. Stay tuned for updates at comox.ca/glacierviewtotempole.
