Spirits of the Coast

Orcas in Science, Art and History

Royal British Columbia Museum

A cross-section of literary and visual representations of the Orca is brought together in this significant publication on one of the most spectacular coastal creatures to inhabit British Columbia. Indigenous stories, scientific analysis, poetry, and works from artists of all ages reflect the reciprocal relationship between these magnificent animals and the people around them. The book is divided into three topics (Connection, Captivity, and Consciousness) with a number of entries under each. Each entry begins with a title page to set them apart. Uniquely, the dust jacket – with gloss foil details – is two-sided and features a commissioned illustration by Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas, whose painting also appears in sections throughout the book.