Robert Davidson carved his first totem pole in 1969 in his home village on Haida Gwaii. This marked a significant moment for Indigenous art. Directed by Charles Wilkinson, *Haida Modern* traces Davidson's career over 50 years. The film features his education in Haida culture, his experiences in the residential school system, and his activism for climate change and human rights. It premiered at the 2019 Vancouver International Film Festival and won several audience choice awards.

Deep Dive

Why Watch

Watch Robert Davidson's impactful art journey.
See the revival of Haida culture in the 1960s.
Find out about Indigenous activism for climate change.

Did You Know

Robert Davidson raised a totem pole in 1969 after nearly 100 years.
Haida Modern won the Super Channel People's Choice Award in 2019.
The film premiered at the Vancouver International Film Festival in 2019.
It had its broadcast premiere on June 2, 2020, on Knowledge Network.

Perfect For

Indigenous art enthusiastsDocumentary film loversClimate change activists

Read full Deep Dive →

Frequently Asked Questions

Who directed the documentary Haida Modern?

Haida Modern was directed by Charles Wilkinson.

What significant event in Robert Davidson's career is featured in the film?

In the summer of 1969, Robert Davidson carved and raised a totem pole in his home village for the first time in nearly a century.

What awards did Haida Modern win at film festivals?

Haida Modern won the Super Channel People's Choice Award for Most Popular Canadian Documentary at the Vancouver International Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award for Best Canadian Documentary at the Available Light Film Festival.

Awards & Festivals

Vancouver International Film Festival

2019 • Official selection

Leo Awards

2021 • Official selection

Awards & Festivals

Comments

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