BRENTWOOD BAY, B.C. — September 30, 2026 — After more than a decade away from Brentwood Bay, a totem carved by renowned W̱SÁNEĆ artist Charles Elliot has returned to the place it was created for — now restored by his son, Chazz & Matt Elliot, and standing once again in the lobby of Brentwood Bay Resort. When Brentwood Bay Resort opened in 2004, local ownership intentionally created a property where art would be part of the guest experience. Among the artists commissioned for the opening was Charles Elliot who, among other art pieces, carved two totem poles for the resort as part of its opening and as a way of grounding the new property in the place where it stands. Indigenous art was featured throughout the property alongside the work of other local artists like Kathryn Amission. The Resort’s relationship with art was intended to support artists – some pieces were purchased by the Resort, while others were displayed and sold on commission. By the time the resort changed ownership, most of the Indigenous artwork had left the property — including the two totem poles carved by Charles Elliot. While it is not known whether there was an agreement that the totems would remain at the resort indefinitely or whether they were always intended to be available for sale, what was clear to the resort’s current team was that they wanted to find a way to bring these totems home again.
“When we learned that one of the totems was still out there, and that there might be a possibility of bringing it back, we felt a real sense of responsibility to see if we could make that happen. This piece was created for W̱SÁNEĆ territory, and having it return to Brentwood Bay feels incredibly meaningful. It is a reminder that our relationship with the land and with the artists connected to this place is something we want to continue to nurture.” — Natasha Richardson, CEO, Brentwood Bay Resort
Natasha Richardson began the search by connecting with three people who could help tell the story of the artwork: Charles Elliot’s sons, Chazz & Matt Elliot; and Vivian Ji, owner of Saanich Peninsula Art Gallery. In 2013, the totem had been offered for sale through the Saanich Peninsula Art Gallery. It was purchased by a man who took the piece to his home in Ontario, where it remained on display. Through Vivian, the resort was able to contact the current owner, Jim, and learn that the totem had been cared for and remained part of his home for more than a decade. In 2026, an unexpected message arrived – Jim wanted to return the totem pole home, to W̱SÁNEĆ territory. At the end of the summer, Jim and his granddaughter began the long journey west from Ontario, driving the totem back to British Columbia. After more than a decade, it arrived once again at Brentwood Bay Resort.
Before it could take its place in the lobby, Chazz & Matt Elliot, now practicing carvers, took on the work of refurbishing their father’s creation. Through his knowledge, skill and connection to the original work, Chazz & Matt carefully restored the totem so that it could once again stand proudly in the resort.
“Seeing our father’s work come back home to W̱SÁNEĆ territory is really special. He created these pieces for the resort when it first opened, so there is a connection between the work, this place, and the time when he made it. I’m grateful we had the opportunity to care for it and bring it back to a condition where people can appreciate it again.” — Chazz Elliot, practicing carver and son of Charles Elliot
Today, KELȽOLEMEĆEN stands proudly in the lobby of Brentwood Bay Resort — returning not simply as a piece of artwork, but as part of the resort’s history and its ongoing relationship with the community and territory around it. Its journey is a reminder that art can carry stories far beyond the walls where it was first created. It can travel, change hands, become part of another family’s life, and, sometimes, find its way home again.
For Brentwood Bay Resort, the return also marks another chapter in an ongoing effort to better understand and honour the W̱SÁNEĆ territory in which the resort operates.
Brentwood Bay Resort respectfully acknowledges that it lives, works and plays in W̱SÁNEĆ territory. The Resort’s commitment is to continue learning about W̱SÁNEĆ culture, language, history and relationship to the land and waters, while approaching that learning with respect, care and humility. The resort recognizes that reconciliation begins with truth, listening, and a willingness to learn. Its goal is not to speak for W̱SÁNEĆ people or to appropriate their knowledge, but to build respectful relationships and create greater awareness of the history and living culture of the place it calls home. The W̱SÁNEĆ homeland encompasses the Saanich Peninsula, Southern Gulf Islands, the San Juan Islands and surrounding waters. For the W̱SÁNEĆ people, the sea is not separate from the land but an integral part of their homeland and way of life. Their teachings, language and seasonal knowledge reflect a deeply connected relationship with the land, water, and all living things. Brentwood Bay Resort encourages guests, staff and visitors to continue learning from trusted W̱SÁNEĆ community resources and voices. As the resort’s own W̱SÁNEĆ statement says, “Reconciliation starts with learning and participating” — with respect, consent and care for the land and water we now occupy. The return of KELȽOLEMEĆEN is one small part of that ongoing journey. And for a totem that began its story at Brentwood Bay more than two decades ago, its journey has finally brought it home.
About Brentwood Bay Resort
Nestled within W̱SÁNEĆ territory, Brentwood Bay Resort is a boutique luxury property located on the waterfront of Brentwood Bay, British Columbia. Recognized among Canada’s top resorts, the property features elegant oceanfront accommodations, The Arbutus Room, The Lodge Kitchen & Bar, an award-winning spa, and a full-service marina. Rooted in thoughtful hospitality and inspired by the landscapes of the Saanich Peninsula, the resort creates immersive experiences that celebrate local food, wellness, sustainability, and the natural beauty of the Salish Sea. Situated on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples, Brentwood Bay Resort is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between guests, community, and place.
Media Contact:
Brentwood Bay Resort
Erin Sinclair
Marketing Manager
[email protected]
(250) 544-2079 ext.5132