Wak'es

For the Kwakwaka’wakw, Wak’es (wah-kess), or Frog, is a supernatural being able to live both on land and in water. Acting as a messenger between the Sea and the Land, it is admired for its adaptability, communication skills, and magical singing powers. In this artwork, the copper color symbolizes the copper shield, representing wealth and power, and is also linked to the Frog. This limited edition silk screen print, titled “Wak’es” by Francis Dick, was created entirely by hand through the screen printing process. It is the only limited edition of this design, with each copy inspected and signed by the artist. All trial prints have been destroyed, and the printing stencils eliminated.

The artist Francis Dick created this piece in 2011. It was released in an edition of 125 signed and numbered prints, along with 12 artist's proofs, 12 remarques, and 2 printer's proofs. The paper measures 55 by 75.5 cm (22 by 30 inches), while the image itself is 46 by 63 cm (17 by 25 inches).