In 1927, Walter J. Phillips, one of Canada’s premier artists in the mediums of watercolor and printmaking, embarked on his first journey to the West Coast of British Columbia. His travels took him to Alert Bay and the surrounding areas, where he explored remote villages such as Mamalilicoola by boat. The unique, ever-changing landscapes of the region captivated him, with its humid atmosphere and shifting skies. Phillips was particularly taken by the beauty of Mamalilicoola, which offered a breathtaking view across layers of islands toward the snow-capped peaks of Vancouver Island.

After hiking through what he called the "green twilight" to the village, Phillips encountered the centerpiece of his large woodcut: a towering and magnificent totem pole. This totem stood in front of a community house, its pediment intricately carved and painted with an allegorical sun figure, flanked by two fish. As Phillips explored the village further, he marveled at the totems, house-posts, and zunuks, finding ample inspiration for days of sketching.

The West Coast experience left a lasting impression on Phillips. He later reflected, “I regretted leaving the coast, and I long to return.” His woodcut Mamalilicoola, renowned for its beauty and exquisite detail, remains one of Phillips’s most celebrated works.

This woodcut was produced in a limited edition of 100.