Image is of Chip, Norman, and Isaac shaping the hull and east end of the canoe log. Norman stands on a small table on log's south side and holds a chainsaw while Chip regards the log from the ground and Isaac stands on its top.
Image is of Norman using a chainsaw to continue shaping hull of canoe log. Chip stands atop the east end of the canoe log, regarding the progress. Canoe scraps and blocks cover the ground surrounding the canoe log. Longhouse exterior is visible in image background.
Image is of Norman using a chainsaw to continue shaping hull of canoe log. Chip stands atop the east end of the canoe log, regarding the progress. Canoe scraps and blocks cover the ground surrounding the canoe log. Longhouse exterior is visible in image background.
Image is of Isaac using a maul to shape the hull of the canoe log as Norman stands near the log's east end. MOA grounds and totems are visible in image background.
Image is of Isaac and Norman continuing to shape the canoe log. Isaac kneels on top of the east end of the canoe as Norman watches from the ground that is covered with cedar scraps and blocks.
Image is of Norman using a chainsaw to continue shaping hull of canoe log. Chip stands atop the east end of the canoe log, regarding the progress. Canoe scraps and blocks cover the ground surrounding the canoe log. Longhouse exterior is visible in image background.
Image is of Isaac using a tool to shape an unidentified carving next to the canoe log. Norman squats against the longhouse exterior behind him, watching the process.
Image is of three unidentified persons beginning to secure the log for transport as another unidentified person watches the process. A pile of logs can be seen in the background.
Image is of canoe log being lowered to truck bed. An unidentified person is instructing another unidentified person how to secure the log for transport.
Image is of Chip and Isaac preparing longer component of steaming apparatus prior to second steaming. Model canoe rests on top of board nearby. Unidentified persons with video equipment stand to the side, documenting the process. Part of longhouse is visible in background of image.
Image is of Ron and Chip holding model canoe following removal from steaming apparatus. Norman holds a blanket with which to cover the model canoe for pressing.
The fonds consists of photographs created by Ronnie Tessler between 1986 and 1987 documenting a canoe project by Nisga’a carver Norman Tait. The project was abandoned in the summer of 1987, and the canoe was left uncompleted. The photographs depict models for the canoe, transportation of the log for the canoe to the Museum of Anthropology, ceremonies performed throughout the project, and various stages of work on the canoe and model. Additional photographs from this period depict a totem pole-raising ceremony at Capilano Mall in North Vancouver, as well as portraits of Les Baker, a model Tait wanted to use for a “white man” mask. The fonds is arranged into a single series: Norman Tait canoe project and related materials.