Why today’s Google Doodle is spotlighting Indigenous art
Open Google today, and you’ll be met with more than just a homepage; you’ll see a story carved into digital wood.
To mark National Indigenous Peoples Day today (June 21), Google has unveiled a striking new Doodle by Alano Edzerza, a Tāłtān (Tahltan) artist and entrepreneur based in Vancouver, B.C.
Today’s Google Doodle to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day. (Supplied)
The design pays homage to the totem poles of the Pacific Northwest Coast — towering symbols of identity, family, memory, and spirit.
“They tell stories, commemorate events, or represent a family’s lineage and crests,” reads a press release from Google.
“Many totems feature animals… stacked in a narrative sequence that can be ‘read’ by those who understand the symbolism.”
Edzerza is one of the key figures in the contemporary Northwest Coast art movement, blending traditional formline design with bold, modern energy.
He’s had solo and group exhibitions across Canada and internationally, but one of his most recognizable projects came during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, when he designed the Dutch Olympic team’s outerwear.
Alano Edzerza/edzerzagallery.com
His work ranges from fine art to fashion, making Indigenous design accessible across mediums.
Beyond his own practice, Edzerza is committed to mentorship and youth empowerment.
He’s volunteered and taught with organizations such as KAYA (Knowledgeable Aboriginal Youth Association) and the Native Youth Arts Collective, and served as a judge for the YVR Art Foundation Scholarship.
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In 2009, he was recognized with the 30 & Under Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
“My mandate as a young business owner is to not only continue to succeed in running my own business, but to grow and show other artists Native and non-Native alike that we all can create successful business from our talents,” he states in his artist’s bio.
You can see the Doodle live on Google’s homepage today, or explore more of Alano Edzerza’s work.