Protection Wallet - Large

The deep rich hues of ocean blue are sprinkled with bright sunlight as this orca Mother and calf swim near the surface on this fabulous "Protection" Killer Whales - Large Zipper Wallet. The intricate details in the art are fantastic and the way the Momma swims with protection and love with her baby by her side is graceful and beautiful. With the original artwork painted by Andy Everson, this wallet is a true masterpiece.

Snap it open to find eleven credit card slots, one clear plastic photo id slot, a large money pocket and two additional large pockets. Flip this wallet over and unzip the back to find two large compartments for change and receipts. The zipper section is even large enough to fit your iphone.

• Brand: Shagwear
• Material: Durable, vegan, man-made faux leather.
• Measurements: Approximately 3.5 x 7.5 x 1 inches.
• Details: Zipper pocket on back and magnetic snap closure.

About the artist:

Andy Everson was born in Comox B.C. and named Nagedzi after his grandfather, Chief Andy Frank of the K'omoks First Nation. His cultural interests lay with both his K'omoks and Kwakwaka'wakw ancestors and are expressed through dancing, singing and art. To further his career, Andy has gone on to complete his Master's degree in anthropology. From early self-taught lessons, Andy has tried to follow in the footsteps of his Kwakwaka'wakw reletives in creating bold and unique representations that remain rooted in the age old traditions of his ancestors.

The Story Behind the Art:

For the Kwakwaka'wakw, killer whales are seen as our relatives. In my family, the maxinux is the main crest from my grandfather. As long as we treated the whales with respect, they would respond in kind. We used to travel great distances by carved dugout canoe and would often be greeted by great plumes of misty air as the orcas would breach nearby. As one of the more powerful creatures in the sea, a killer whale could easily lift a canoe and all of its occupants dumping them into the frigid ocean. But, they didn't. Instead, they would talk to us and we would talk back in mutual admiration and respect.

As with humans, orcas will most often live together in groups. They rely on each other's protection and companionship. Also, similar to people, there is nothing stronger than the maternal bond between mother and calf. For two years, a calf will breast feed and bond with its mother. For 13 more years, it will mature while playing and exploring under its mother's watchful eye. It will feel a true sense of protection.

In recent times, some of us have lost our sense of respect for these whales. We will watch and admire them, while doing little to stop the destruction of their habitat. Many local populations are in danger. It is up to us to provide more protection for the maxinux however we can.