Gerry Sheena on Totem Pole Carving, Sobriety, and Reconciliation Through Action

A Carver Called to Friends United

Gerry Sheena first came to Friends United after artist Jason Adair introduced him to Rolf Bouman. What began as an invitation quickly became a deep creative relationship built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.

Gerry remembers walking into the centre for the first time and feeling the power of the place immediately. Surrounded by the work of many artists, he saw not only beauty, but energy, story, and possibility.

Totem Poles, Cedar, and the Seven Sacred Teachings

The conversation explores how Gerry’s carving became part of the physical and spiritual presence of Friends United. Early projects included story poles and a major work connected to the Seven Sacred Teachings.

Rolf also shares the story of sourcing large red cedar logs from British Columbia after Gerry explained that authentic West Coast totem pole work required the right material. The logs were transported across Canada to Cape Breton, creating the foundation for works intended to last for generations.

Space, Trust, and Freedom for Artists

Gerry describes Friends United as something rare: a place where an artist can work without pressure, without constant deadlines, and without the daily worry of survival. For him, that freedom opened a different kind of creative space.

Rolf explains that supporting artists looks different for each person. For Gerry, it meant building a workshop, providing tools, sourcing materials, and allowing the work to unfold at its own pace.

Gerry’s Journey Into Carving

Gerry speaks openly about his path into art. Although he first considered business, teaching, and other more traditional routes, carving continued to call him. His interest in three-dimensional masks, poles, and formline traditions eventually led him away from conventional expectations and toward the work he felt he was meant to do.

He also discusses the importance of respecting different West Coast formline styles and learning through observation, practice, and lived experience.

Sobriety, Second Chances, and Coming Home

One of the most moving parts of the interview is Gerry’s account of addiction, incarceration, and recovery. While in prison, he was given the chance to carve a totem pole. With support and trust from others, he created tools, gathered a crew, and completed a pole in 36 days.

For Gerry, carving became part of the way back to himself. He describes dreams of logs and unfinished carvings as a call to return home — to sobriety, to his family, and to the work that gave his life direction.

Reconciliation Through Action

Gerry describes Rolf Bouman as someone who leads through action rather than words. For him, Friends United represents a lived form of reconciliation: providing support, space, materials, trust, and long-term opportunity for Indigenous artists.

Rolf reflects on listening to Indigenous friends, learning about residential schools, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, youth suicide, and the ongoing need for hope. He emphasizes that reconciliation must come from the heart and be carried forward through practical, lasting support.

Legacy, Love, and Hope

The interview closes with two words that capture the spirit of the conversation: love and friendship. For Rolf, the work brings love back. For Gerry, Friends United has brought deep friendships and a renewed sense of purpose.

Together, their conversation shows how art can hold memory, create hope, and leave a legacy for future generations.