Artwork copyright Lillian Pitt. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Wishxam Totem, 1997

Lillian Pitt
American, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs (born 1943)

Location: Rochester Middle School, Rochester

About the Artwork

Native American artist Lillian Pitt created the sculpture Wishxam Totem as part of her series of totems that honor her Warm Springs, Wasco and Wishxam ancestors. The Wishxam band was part of the Upper Chinookan Tribes of the Columbia River. She notes, “Each totem emblematizes an animal, plant, or human spirit that offers guidance to individuals wishing to realign themselves with the wise and knowing ways of the ancestors. These ancestors share a 10,000-year history with the Columbia River Gorge, where the struggle to adapt to the gradual environmental changes and economic and political shifts continues to this day.”

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Rochester School District.

About the Artist

Northwest Native American artist Lillian Pitt (Warm Springs, Wasco, Yakama) creates masks, sculptures, jewelry, prints, public art, and more. She uses a variety of materials including clay, bronze, and glass. Her art reflects and celebrates her Warm Springs, Yakama, and Wasco heritage. In Pitt's own words: “Everything I do, regardless of the medium, is directly related to honoring my ancestors and giving voice to the people, the environment and the animals. It’s all about maintaining a link with tradition and about honoring the many contributions my ancestors have made to this world.” She was honored with a Governor’s Award of the Oregon Arts Commission in 1990.