Artistic Talent of a Mason

Local 21 Illinois retired member Gene Falada with his work of art.

A few years ago, Gene Falada of Local 21 Illinois took down an ash tree in his yard, and began entertaining the idea of carving it into a totem pole. “After chopping stone all those years, I thought it could not be any harder,” Falada explains. “I was quite surprised when I got into the chiseling.”

Falada patterned his design from postcards of totems in British Columbia. It features, in descending order, likenesses of an eagle, a bear, an owl, and a beaver. Each animal has its own significance in the totem pole culture; the beaver represents a builder or protector, the owl symbolizes clairvoyance and insight, the bear represents power and healing, and the eagle is the symbol of a divine spirit and our connection to a creator.

The meanings of the designs on totem poles are as varied as the cultures that produce them. Totem poles may recount familiar legends, clan lineages, or notable events. Some poles are erected to celebrate cultural beliefs, although others are intended mostly as artistic presentations. Poles are also carved to illustrate stories and to commemorate historic persons.

Regardless of the designer’s intent, however, totem pole carving takes great talent, and only a truly skilled craftworker is up to the challenge.

At 76, Falada is still designing and building, not only for his enjoyment, but also for the benefit of friends and neighbors.