The Seattle Center Totem is a 30-foot-high pole carved in the Pacific Northwest coast Indian tradition. It features from top to bottom Hawk, Bear (holding a salmon), Raven and Killer Whale. Traces of the original bright red and black paint are still visible but undeniably faded. The once well-defined designs of the hand-carved wood have been smoothed by years of wind, rain and sun. This natural weathering is not meant to be viewed as an indication of neglect but rather as a sign of respect in accordance with Native American tradition that totems be left to age gracefully.
