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Central Interior First Nations Artisan Catalogue 1

Community Futures Development Corporation ofCentral Interior First Nations

The Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations promotes and provides com-munity economic development services to aboriginal people within the central interior of British Columbia.

Our service area includes the Thompson-Shuswap-Nicola-Fraser Canyon-Lillooet areas and provides services to the aboriginal people, groups or businesses both on and off reserves as well as in urban and rural settings. The board of directors and staff will direct its attention to both the starting and strengthening of native business de-velopment, as well as preparation of our people for the labour market. While there are other community futures development corporations in the geographic area described to serve the public at large, we serve only the aborig-inal people. The special focus on aboriginal people and their specific needs allows the board and staff to work with economic development issues that are unique to the needs of our native community.

Contact Information#215 - 345 Yellowhead Hwy. Kamloops, BC V2H1H1

Phone: 250.828.9833 or Fax: 250.828.9972www.cfdcofcifn.com

Geri CollinsDirector of OperationsPhone: 250.828.9833

Email: [email protected]

Jackie BanduraTraining Manager

Phone: 250.828.9727Email: [email protected]

Dale TommaSenior Business Development Officer

Phone: 250.828.9725Email: [email protected]

Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations2


The Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN) obtained some funding to develop a catalogue of First Nations artisans within the Central Interior. This catalogue was de-signed to introduce Central Interior First Nations art to a larger audience because we are not as well-known, or as widely-recognized for our art as some of the other First Nations within BC.

This catalogue highlights Central Interior First Nations artisans and provides the opportunity to showcase their work to the public. The art from the Central Interior is beautifully crafted by people that have a passion for ex-pressing themselves creatively. There is fine quality work being created in the Central Interior which continues to be unrecognized or unnoticed.

This catalogue will help people learn about the culture and traditions of First Nations people of the Central Inter-ior. The catalogue will also inform people about the type of work being done and the people who are creating it. It will also help people understand and appreciate the craftsmanship of Central Interior First Nations artisans.

The Central Interior is home to a wide range of First Nations artisans, from people that grew up in this area, to others who moved from other places and now call the Central Interior home. As such, this catalogue is full of arti-sans from First Nations all across Canada.

The Central Interior has much to offer First Nations artisans in terms of inspiration and tools and materials. Carvers have the opportunity to gather their own soapstone and jade from almost right outside their front doors. Painters can find a whole world of colours by taking a walk through the forest. Beaders create wonderfully realistic copies of wild flowers and other plants found locally.

Many First Nations artisans continue to carry on their culture by creating work based on their traditional art style. Other artisans have been expressing themselves using contemporary mediums. Carvers continue to carve soap-stone, a local cultural tradition. Artisans also use pictographs to integrate their culture into their art. However, from fashion design, to photography, to tattoo design many of the artisans included in this catalogue continue to create works outside of the traditional methods and styles.

No matter what their individual discipline, this catalogue is a collection of wonderfully-talented, unique artisans. Contact information for artisans, if available, is located on each of their individual pages.

INTRODUCTION


In the mountains where Charles lives, he is rediscovering soapstone sources that his ancestors have used for centuries. The colour combinations of this local soapstone are extraordinary and many people are surprised that it is from British Columbia. While Charles finishes each carving by hand, he is still amazed at the beautiful natural colours that are revealed in each piece. Charles also carves imported stones that find their way to BC from places far and near. The gold inlay that Charles uses in some carvings is gold that he collects himself from the two great rivers near his home.

Charles’ love and respect for nature has given him the gift of carving wildlife figures from all over North America. He also has an interest in carving his own unique versions of the ancient stone artifacts made by his ancestors. Charles is glad to be one of the first in a Nlaka’pamux soapstone carving revival.

Charles BrownNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementI am part of the mountains and the

beautiful nature for a great distance around the place where I was born, where two great rivers, the Thompson and Fraser rivers, meet near the small town of Lytton, BC, Canada.

This land provides me with much healthy sustenance and helps my spirit heal and grow.

My skill at transferring the feelings from this land into the curved lines of my soapstone carvings develops more with each passing year.

My carvings are hand finished to fully express the beauty of this land and its nature. I also feel very privileged to be able to reveal the beautiful natural colours in the soapstone that I find in my home land.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.455.6603Mediums: SoapstoneStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Healing Our Spirit Worldwide, 2006. Native Artisans Showcase and Sale, 2006Art Education: Self-taught

Title: Chief SalmonPrice: sold for $500Medium: Nlaka’pamux Soapstone with Brazilian Soapstone Base and Blue Aba-lone for the eyes.Dimensions: 20 cm x 25 cmDescription: The Salmon Chiefs lead their people up the river from the sea.

Title: Gold-Eyed Eagle with SalmonPrice: sold for $2,800Medium: Brazilian Soapstone and gold for the eyesDimensions: 50 cm x 30 cmDescription: The eagle has caught a sal-mon in its deadly talons. Purchased as a gift for one of the Nlaka’pamux.

Title: Shaman’s BowlPrice: sold for $500Medium: Wonder Stone from AfricaDimensions: 20 cm x 25 cmDescription: The snake’s body travels down the back and curls into a spiral. The Nlaka’pamux people used these bowls 1,500 to 2,500 years ago.

Title: Fall BearPrice: sold for $8,000Medium: Nlaka’pamux Soapstone, and claws made of moose antlerDimensions: 38 cm x 57 cmDescription: This grizzly bear is fattened up for the winter and is looking at the first snow on the mountain tops.


Leonard was born in Lytton BC on April 4, 1972. Leonard’s father and grandfather were both carvers, so Leonard’s first recollection of art was the smell of bone, dust, cotton wood, and shoe polish. The smell of those materials taught him tolerance and is why he chose to become a painter. Leonard’s first real art piece was done when he was about seven years old and was based on a memory of his past.

Leonard always knew that he would become an artist. In 1990, he enrolled in a Fine Art Program at NVIT in Merritt. That was the first year in his professional Visual Arts career. His first instructor was Mary Longman, a well-known First Nations artist. Leonard feels Mary was the first person who instructed him in a disciplined way. She inspired him to ‘be’ and ‘do’ different things with his art. Mary gave Leonard a better path to follow. Leonard feels he wouldn’t be the artist he is today if it wasn’t for her.

Leonard George Jr.Thompson

Title: Dance, Sing, PrayPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: AcrylicsDimensions: 20” x 28”

Title: Medicine EaglePrice: Contact ArtistMedium: AcrylicsDimensions: 24” x 26.5”

Title: Spiritual GraffitiPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: AcrylicsDimensions: 24” x 24”

Title: Divinity of LightPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: AcrylicsDimensions: 22.5” x 45.5”

Artist StatementI am concerned with using materials

that are safe for me and also materials that do not pollute Mother Earth.

Consequently, I choose to paint with acrylic paints and combine them with natural materials such as earth, wood, rocks and leaves. Rarely does anything that I use go to waste, even the bits and pieces are recycled.

I tend to work in acrylic medium on canvas, or any surface that is like canvas. If possible, I use natural pigments such as sand, wood and dirt. Mother Earth is my first priority in any art piece that I do.

Natural materials have a spiritual connection for me which keep my priorities in line. By using my first nations sense to explore, I approach my art in a spiritual way and give it emotional qualities.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.6384Mediums: Acrylic on canvasStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Courthouse GalleryAwards: Peace Hills TrustAffiliations: Courthouse GalleryArt Education: Fine Arts, NVIT


My name is Doris (Manuel) Bamford. My First Nations name is Qwe Pau, meaning busy woman. I create all native-inspired articles and regalia. For the past 25 years, I have learned techniques from Elders and in the last 15 years I expanded into regalia and accessories. From then I have made other jewellery, and head pieces, such as crowns. I started creating my artwork through my job in the band as an education worker. Later I taught in a school, and I would teach the students after school various little crafts and also teach them more about their culture and heritage. I hope to influence other people, young and old, to become involved in their culture, so that they are able to learn and teach others. This will keep the culture and traditions going forever.

My highlights are when the young dancers try on the outfits and show me they knew how to dance. I continue to do my artwork because I like to experiment with regalia and creating different jewellery.

Doris BamfordSecwepemc

Artist StatementWhen I sit down to make regalia, I

always have a clear state of mind. I pray for guidance from the Creator to help me figure out the difficult parts.

I believe in the culture and what impact and influence it has had on my life. For the regalia, I use a lot of bright colours that coordinate and compliment each other. I also try to choose colours and styles that compliment the dancer the regalia was made for.

I believe that what I make will help and influence the person that I made it for. My philosophy is that you can do anything, you just have to set goals and try harder.

My influences are my mother, Elders, Amy Stonechild, who taught me a great deal about the Cree methods for regalia-making, as well as, many other people I met on the Pow Wow trail.

Title: Beaded ChokerPrice: $200Medium: Beads, FeltDimensions: 6” x 4”Description: Diamond-shaped choker. Worn by ladies and men for pow-wow dancing.

Title: Little Girls Fancy Shawl RegaliaPrice: $80Medium: Satin, Broadcloth, RibbonDimensions: Available in various sizesDescription: Includes vest, skirt with flounce, shawl and leggings. Worn by girls of all ages for pow-wow dancing.

Title: Junior Boys Grass OutfitPrice: $85Medium: Wool and BroadclothDimensions: Available in various sizesDescription: Includes apron, top, leg-gings and arm bands. Worn by boys of all ages for pow-wow dancing.

Title: Ladies Fancy Necklace & EarringsPrice: $65Medium: BeadsDimensions: Fits loosely around neckDescription: Necklace and matching earrings, both with beads that dangle as a lady moves during pow-wow dancing.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.314.9820Mediums: Regalia, Headpieces, Jewel-lery, Pine Needle BasketsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibits: Native Artisan Showcase and Sale, and Pow Wows.Art Education: Self-taught


Although Deana is Cree, she was adopted at an early age and raised in the Interior. Her traditional name is Eagle Bear Woman. She has been creating art for the past 13 years. She makes hand drums, drum sticks, talking sticks, dance sticks and also does bead work. She learned to make hand drums when she worked in Corrections with native inmates. She worked with elders who helped her teach inmates how to make the drums.

Today, she’s taught hundreds of people how to make the drums. Deana is passionate about her work and thinks it’s incredible to see the excitement and enjoyment people get from making their drums. The one thing Deana wishes she did is record the number of people she has taught. While Deana’s main focus is hand drums, she also likes to create different styles of bead work.

Deana looks up to her dad and says he is a big influence on her.

Deana NicholsonCree

Artist StatementI use only traditionally tanned hide,

or hide brought to the raw-hide stage for drums. I’m very set on purchasing from an elder who has done the hides.

I follow the no drugs and no alcohol way of life and I maintain a positive mind set when I’m doing my artwork. I learned that from an elder, Jimmy Saul, that came into my life when I started working in Corrections. He’s always been a big influence on me.

I learned how to make hand drums in 1995 from the late Gary Cavanagh, who was a phenomenal artist from Sugarcane.My family and friends are supportive and that makes me feel good and motivates me to move forward.

When I do work for myself, or for specific people, I like to use the four directions and the four colours of the medicine wheel.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.377.1087Mediums: Hand drums, Ceremony sticksStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Spruce Meadows Inter-national Market, Native Artisan Show-case and Sale

Title: Hand DrumPrice: $300Medium: Moose rawhideDimensions: 17” in diameterDescription: Hand Drum pictured with a beaded talking stick.

Title: Hand DrumPrice: $250Medium: Moose rawhideDimensions: 14” in diameterDescription: Hand Drum pictured with a Medicine Wheel and a decorative Mini-Drum.

Title: Beaded Talking StickPrice: $450Medium: Moose hide, Rabbit fur, Feath-ersDimensions: 1’Description: Traditionally-tanned Moose hide Talking Stick with Deer antler but-tons, Eagle feathers and beads.

Title: Fish Scale Fridge MagnetPrice: $60Medium: fish scales, deer hideDimensions: 3” in diameterDescription: Floral patterned fridge mag-net made from fish scales and commer-cially tanned deer hide.


Title: Deer Hoof RattlePrice: $55Medium: Deer hooves and hornDimensions: 6”Description: A traditional rattle made from the hooves and horn from a deer.

Title: Eight Sided Hand DrumPrice: $185Medium: Elk hideDimensions: 16” diameterDescription: An Eagle is looking after all the children and newborns by taking them under his wing

Title: Round Hand DrumPrice: $165Medium: Elk hideDimensions: 15” diameterDescription: A hummingbird feeding on all the flowers.

Title: Moose Hide RattlePrice: $55Medium: Moose hideDimensions: 11”Description: Little thunder rocks and white rocks that spark in the dark with the rattle is in use.

Sam has been creating all sort of drums, rattles and bags since 1990. He first became involved in his craft because he wanted to learn how to become a hand drum singer.

Sam is proud of the fact that his work is all traditional and all hand-made. He hopes that people will take the opportunity to learn more about their culture and know more about their traditional practices.

One of Sam’s accomplishments was when he did a drum making workshop in Merritt for 65 students at a First Nations school.

Sam enjoys making drums the most because the drum is known as the heartbeat of his people. All of Sam’s creations are unique because he likes to have his own ideas. He prefers not to copy other work, so he always starts with fresh ideas. Sam has always enjoyed taking to local artist Opie Oppenheim. While the two artists focus on different mediums, Sam looks up to Opie as an artist.

Sam AdolphSt’at’imc

Artist StatementI continue to create my work because

I really like doing it. If I didn’t enjoy it, I probably wouldn’t be doing it.

I mostly taught myself how to make drums, rattles, and medicine bags. I did it through trial and error, and in the beginning it was mostly errors.

I use deer hides, moose hides, elk hides and I make my own drum frames.

If I’m dealing with a moose, elk or deer, it’s an honour for me. The animal gives its life to feed our people.

I don’t like seeing their hides, horns, or hooves thrown in the garbage. It bothers me a lot to see that.

When I do my crafts, I usually to burn smudge, because it’s spiritual for me.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.256.7628Fax: 250.256.7611Mediums: Drums, Rattles, BagsStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught


Mandy has been making traditional cedar root baskets since she was about 6 or 7 years old. She would sit and watch her grandmother make the baskets. She wanted her grandmother to teach her how to make them, so her grandmother took her out to help gather the materials that were needed. Over 60 years later, Mandy is still actively making baskets and other cedar root products. Now she mostly makes them when people come to her and ask for a gift for someone else.

It was Mandy’s grandmother that taught her how far to dig for the roots, how to split them, how to gather the Cherry bark and at what times of the year she needed to go out to get her supplies. Mandy’s traditional name was given to after her grandmother.

She enjoys teaching people because the art is dying. She said it used to that there were over 80 ladies from Lytton to North Bend that made baskets, and today you would be lucky to name four.

Mandy BrownNlaka’pamux

Artist Statement The designs on my baskets are

all different. Some are the lakes in the mountains, others are villages, or lightening.

I have done flower designs, Indian paintbrushes, and eagle designs. I always think about what to have on my baskets. Some have teepees, others have trails.

I do baskets, leather work, beading, and all kinds of craft work. I began making moccasins later on in life, I think I was 30 or 35 years old.

I enjoy making baskets the best. I don’t like to make moccasins that much because the sewing is hard on the fingers.

Making baskets is better and you get good exercise when you gather the material. I like going out into the much and digging for cedar roots.

Artist InfoMediums: Cedar Root BasketsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryExhibit History: Canadian Museum of CivilizationUBC Museum of AnthropologyAwards: 1st Place, Ashcroft Fall FairAffiliations: First Peoples Hall Advisory CommitteeArt Education: Mentored by grand-mother

Title: Picking BasketPrice: $2,500Medium: Cedar Roots, Wild Cherry Bark, Weaved StrapDimensions: 12” x 10” x 6”Description: Traditional basket used for picking and gathering berries and other traditional foods and plants.

Title: Dish SetPrice: $3,000Medium: Cedar RootDimensions: Various sizesDescription: Set includes a plate, a small basket, a basket with a lid, two cups, two saucers, two spoons, one medium sized tray and one large tray.

Title: Tray with HandlesPrice: $1,500Medium: Cedar Root, Wild Cherry BarkDimensions: 1.5’ diameterDescription: Traditional tray with built-in handles for easy carrying. Tray displays intricate eagle designs along the bottom.

Title: Baby CradlePrice: $4,000Medium: Cedar RootDimensions: 2.5’Description: Traditional baby cradle with designs that wrap around the entire outside of the cradle.


Until 1999, Daniel had only made three carvings from wood and miscellaneous materials. It wasn’t until later that year, that he took up soapstone carving in addition to his wood carving.

In 2005, Daniel started his animal tomahawk series using some of the unusually shaped wood he had amassed, because their contours made exceptional handles. A few months after starting his tomahawks he moved back to the Thompson region, deciding to try and make a career out of his craftsmanship.

Still early in his career and now learning about various stone characteristics Daniel attempts multiple pieces concurrently. He is working on display weapons, some masks, wildlife carvings, jewellery, wall panels, and some abstract pieces. Daniel is continuously striving for innovative designs and undertaking new projects to keep his art distinctive.

Daniel TomSt’at’imc

Artist StatementFor me, carving is a learning

experience, not something I already know. I allow myself to my flexible and I continually explore possibilities.

Much research goes into most projects as I learn by reading books and other resources on animals, plant life and art. This helps me understand proportion, characteristics, details or any relevant information I may require.

I construct anything from wildlife or people to unfamiliar, intense pieces, intriguing works pleading for an explanation, even complex designs I’m not certain I can complete.

My art is a journey of discovery. Heavy emotion goes into many pieces, and sometimes I create things I don’t understand. Understanding is, at times, acquired in the process.

When people see certain works of my art, I’d like them to think about who they are and not who they think I may be.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: www.dstcreativity.caMediums: Wood, Stone, Found ObjectsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: I Think I CanPrice: $2,300Medium: Soapstone, Chlorite, Catlinite, Rabbit Fur, Polar Bear FurDimensions: 5” x 6” x 12.25”Description: A cougar readying to make a jump.

Title: The Crane PeoplePrice: $2,500Medium: Maple, Cedar, Pine, Birch, Apricot, Russian OliveDimensions: 17” in diameter from point to point.Description: A wall panel design made from 344 pieces of wood.

Title: In Beauty Amid DeathPrice: $4,200Medium: Maple, Alabaster, Chlorite, Soapstone, Camera Lenses, Duck Feath-ers, Leather, Magnets, PhotoDimensions: 28.13” x 9.5” x 14.65”Description: A Bald Eagle Tomahawk resting on it’s base.

Title: Good, Bad, Happy, MadPrice: $3,500Medium: Birch burl, Chlorite, Alabaster, Catlinite, Soapstone, Seashells, Rabbit Fur, Nylon straps with Plastic fastenerDimensions: 12.5” x 9.75” x 5”Description: A wearable mask with inlaid stone, shell and fur.


Title: Soapstone PendantPrice: $20Medium: Soapstone, BuckskinDimensions: 2” diameterDescription: The Last Stand, a rider on his horse reaches the end of the trail, as it relates to sobriety.

Title: 14” Hand drumPrice: $180Medium: Elk hideDimensions: 14” in diameterDescription: Praying hands holding two feathers and a medicine wheel.

Title: Comb Mirror with StandPrice: $180Medium: Juniper Wood, Soapstone, Abalone, TurquoiseDimensions: 10” x 5”Description: Fisherman and Stein art. The colour red means guiding spirits.

Title: RattlePrice: $90Medium: Elk, Horse hair, Beans, BeadsDimensions: 5.5” x 10”Description: Stein painting on one side with Praying Hands holding a feather painted on the other side.

Jerry first learned how to carve when he was in residential school. Other students at the school who were from the west coast showed Jerry how to carve, and he continued to carve during his time at school for comfort.

Today, Jerry carves totem poles, pendants, wood mirrors, and he also has learned how to make drums, rattles and talking sticks. He continues to practice his art as a means of support, since Jerry has been sober for over 23 years.

Jerry is also a Sun Dancer. He has been participating in Sun Dances and other spiritual ceremonies since 1989. Some of his work is spiritual, with a big focus on Stein art, and the beliefs related to the art form.

Jerry gets many of his ideas from going to Pow Wows where he meets a lot of new friends. They trade with each other, and give each other advice and information to help each other out.

Jerry McKayNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementMy spiritual journey is the main

influence on my work. I meet other pipe carriers, and they move me with their art. I used to have a sweat lodge in my backyard for 15 to 20 years, so spirituality is a big part of my work.

I try to stick to doing my art in the traditional Stein way. With Stein art, you use mostly red, which meant power, and teachings. Stein traditions and my language are my main focus.

I use raw-hide, and buckskin. The wood I use is usually Juniper wood, or Cherry wood, which were both used traditionally.

I look up to my son Charles McKay, he’s an artist that does coastal-style art. He is good, so I like to see what he is doing and then replicate it with a Stein art twist.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.455.2198Mediums: Drums, Soapstone, Wood, RattlesStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: 1997 Aboriginal ARTs/Crafts Conference, Native Artisans Showcase and SaleArt Education: Self-taught


Donavan grew up in Merritt, BC. He has been making dreamcatchers for the past 15 years. Donavan learned to make dreamcatchers from his mom, as a way to stay out of trouble and keep himself busy. Each of his dreamcatchers are unique and colourful. He creates many different kinds of dreamcatchers, including earrings and teardrop style dreamcatchers.

Donavan, or Smitty, as he is known locally, has been making dreamcatchers for so long that he can make a pair of dreamcatcher earrings in less than half an hour. He continues to perfect his craft because he believes the dreamcatchers help people.

Donavan also does custom dreamcatchers when people bring him their own ornaments that they wish to be in the centre. The largest dreamcatcher Donavan has ever made was 15 feet. He considers his mom the biggest influence in the work that he creates.

Donavan Bent

Artist StatementIf I don’t feel good, I won’t make

any dreamcatchers, but if I’m in a good mood I’ll be able to make lots. If you make a dreamcatcher when you are in a bad mood, then it will end up in the catcher.

The materials I use to create my dreamcatchers is faster than traditional materials, and less expensive.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.0867Mediums: DreamcatchersStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibits: Native Artisan Showcase and Sale, and Pow Wows.Art Education: Mentored by mother and Self-taught

Title: Dreamcatcher EarringsPrice: $10 a pairMedium: silver hoop, thread, beadDimensions: 1” x 1”Description: These earrings are purple but there are many colours available. Some also come with gold hoops.

Title: Teardrop DreamcatcherPrice: $20 eachMedium: ribbon, sinew, feather, beadsDimensions: 2” x 2.5”Description: These dreamcatchers come in a unique style, made with two hoops to create the teardrop in the centre.

Title: Small DreamcatcherPrice: $10 eachMedium: ribbon, sinew, feather, beadsDimensions: 2” x 2”Description: These dreamcatchers come in many different colours with a variety of unique ornaments.

Title: Large DreamcatcherPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: ribbon, thread, beadsDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: These dreamcatchers are large teardrop style dreamcatchers with custom ornaments placed in the centre.


Natasha has always had an interest in photography. She had wanted to pursue the craft for awhile, but it wasn’t until college that she took an elective in photography and decided that was what she was meant to do. She dropped all of her other studies and took studio art classes after her first semester. Since then, she has been perfecting her craft for ten years.

She likes to explore ideas and ask thought-provoking questions. She also enjoys doing work that reflects where she comes from and her environment.

She believes contemporary First Nations art is just as valuable and important to the culture as traditional practices.

Natasha’s influences are Jerry Uelsmann, an American photographer who does montages using negatives, and Willard Charlie, a local artisan who has always been there for her to offer advice and encouragement.

Natasha StreetSt’at’imc

Artist StatementI love the instant gratification of

photography. You shoot a photo, and you don’t really know what you are going to get. When you’re developing the images sometimes there is something in the print that you didn’t see in the frame of the camera lens.

In the darkroom, there are so many changes that can be made to shadows and light, and manipulation of shapes.

You’re isolated when you are developing photos in the darkroom. It’s a different environment because you’re in red light and you don’t really see things clearly until it’s already developed on the page and you’ve cured the print with the chemicals.

Later, you turn the light on and the print looks completely different in yellow light than in red light.

I love the developing process.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.256.4013Mediums: Photography, MontagesStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Studio Art, UCC

Title: BeautyPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Black and White Pearl IlfochromeDimensions: 8’’ x 10”

Title: Self PortraitPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Dry Pastel CollageDimensions: 8” x 10”

Title: SleepingPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Black and White Pearl IlfochromeDimensions: 8”x 10”

Title: Snowy TreePrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Black and White PearlIlfochromeDimensions: 8” x 10”


Nancy has been working with deer hides for 20 years. She tans deer hide, does bead work, makes buckskin gloves, vest and moccasins and ornaments, and also makes dreamcatchers out of red willow. Nancy enjoys making men’s gloves and baby moccasins the most.

Nancy was first interested in buckskin work because she knew her mother used to do it. Nancy was five years old when her mother passed away, but she was told that her mother was the best buckskin glove-maker in the Nicola Valley. Nancy doesn’t think she’ll be as good as her mom was, but she is proud to carry on the tradition.

Nancy thinks buckskin work is a custom that is dying. The more she teaches it, and the more people that pick it up, the better off her people will be because they are losing their customs. Her biggest project so far has been the buckskin jacket she is currently working on. She hopes to have it done by the end of the year.

Nancy SaddlemanOkanagan

Artist Statement I use strictly buckskin. I have worked

with commercial hides but I don’t enjoy it. There’s a big difference between home-tanned hide, and hide that has been done in a factory.

I want the younger generation to pick it up so they can continue the custom and teach it to their younger people. We’re losing our customs like we’re losing our language. So I enjoy the classes I teach where they show interest.

I learned everything I know about buckskin from Laura Manuel. I thank her for the things she has taught me. I follow exactly the way she taught me. I also listen to the elders on my reserve.

They told me I should respect what I am doing and put all my heart into it, which is easy for me because I love doing it. I listen to my elders and respect the buckskin by treating it well and working at ease.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.350.3361Mediums: Beadwork, Buckskin, Dream-catchersStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Craft Sales, Native Artisan Showcase and SaleArt Education: Mentored

Title: Adult MoccasinsPrice: $80Medium: Deer hide, Embroidery, BeadsDimensions: Various SizesDescription: Adult moccasins come in a wide range of colours, sizes and styles. Most pairs are custom made. Contact artisan for further information.

Title: Children’s High Top MoccasinsPrice: $60Medium: Deer hide, BeadsDimensions: Various SizesDescription: Children’s moccasins come in a wide range of colours, sizes and styles. Most pairs are custom made. Con-tact artisan for further information.

Title: Baby MoccasinsPrice: $40Medium: Deer hide, Beads, FurDimensions: Various SizesDescription: Baby moccasins come in a wide range of colours, sizes and styles. Most pairs are custom made. Contact artisan for further information.

Title: Buckskin GlovesPrice: Medium: Deer hideDimensions: Various SizesDescription: Gloves come in a wide range of colours, sizes and styles. Most pairs are custom made. Contact artisan for further information.


Title: Family Map (and everyone else)Price: $2,000Medium: Oil paint & print making inks on prepared paperDimensions: 26” x 21”Description: Based on the cultural trad-ition of life maps, the time whorls repre-sent the artist’s life and family members

Title: Lunar CelebrationPrice: $2,400Medium: Oil painting on canvasDimensions: 40” x 30”Description: Monthly four day celebra-tion of the full moon. Inspired by previ-ous pieces done of red ochre rocks

Title: Mondrian ComicsPrice: $3,000Medium: Oil on canvasDescription: One of our summer time activities was to go to the Ocean side beaches in the States. The tide would come in signalling time to barbeque

Title: Things Keep ChangingPrice: $2,750Medium: Oil on canvasDimensions: 40” x 30”Description: Children, stay frozen at a certain age in my mind. The butterfly and frog are changelings too and are al-ways going through changes and rebirth.

Riley was born in Merritt but now resides in the Mission area in the Fraser Valley. She has been an artist for over 30 years. The combination of strong colours, style, and story-telling is reflected throughout all of her work. Riley’s work is contemporary, but she tries to keep it within her knowledge of her own people.

She does oil paintings, hand-pulled lithographs, collagraphs, watercolours and bead work. Riley prefers oil paintings because of its slow-drying, which gives her longer to work with it. She can also get several different tones with oil.

Her ideas come from something she has seen, which sparks something inside of her. Sometimes it takes her awhile before she is ready to put the idea to canvas, while other times she can paint it immediately. Riley does a lot of research into the Interior Salish people and says that many of her ideas come from sparks during that research.

Riley ChartersSecwepemc/Thompson

Artist StatementMy work is personal and is inspired

by everyday things in my family and surroundings. Once I visualize an idea, I can’t wait to get it onto canvas, otherwise it interferes with everything else I’m doing.

My ideas keep me going and I try to see things differently. I hope that people like my paintings as much as I enjoy doing them. Maybe people will be able to get their own messages from what I’m painting.

I think my work represents the Interior Salish, and the fact that there is something there. I try to be careful about anything that is really personal to somebody else. I try to change things and make them different, so that it won’t be so personal to anybody.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 604.820.4606Website: Google “Riley Charters”Mediums: Oil Paintings, Watercolours, Lithographs, Collagraphs, BeadworkStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Kootenay School of Arts/Fine Arts Diploma, Fraser Valley College of Art/Graphic Design Certifi-cate, UC of the Fraser Valley


Sonny has lived in and around Merritt, BC for his entire life. He focuses on soapstone and other carving but also has done a bit of drawing and painting.

He has been an artist for most of his life and initially started doing his artwork as he gave up drinking alcohol and began his healing to find his spirit.

He hopes that his artwork will help to tell the First Nations stories of who they are, and to let people know that they have a talent to express themselves though art.

When Paul starts to carve a piece of soapstone he visualizes the spirit of the rock and turns it around and around until he can actually see what the rock is, and then he carves the rock so everyone can see the spirit inside. Paul considers Bill Reid an incredible artist and looks up to him because of his fine lines and attention to detail.

Sonny OppenheimNlaka’pamux

Title: Traditional DancerPrice: $1,000Medium: Soapstone, antlerDimensions: 8” x 6”wideDescription: Traditional dancer is dan-cing for his people. Feathered headdress continues down the length of the dancer’s back

Title: Mother Bear Seeks GuidancePrice: $350Medium: Red CedarDimensions: 18” x 12”Description: Mother Bear searching for answers in the moon.

Title: When Things Were GoodPrice: $125Medium: penDimensions: 12” x 8”Description: It used to be said that long ago fish were so plentiful in the river that you could walk on their backs to get to the other side

Title: The Messenger Price: $350Medium: Yellow CedarDimensions: 11” x 6”Description: A Spirit Messenger carries messages between this world and the spirit world.

Artist StatementI am inspired to continue to do my

work because of the gratitude that I receive when I am displaying it. I like to tell the story and enjoy the interaction with others.

I don’t follow any rules or standards, because I mostly taught myself, so I just do my own thing.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.0809Mediums: Soapstone, CarvingStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught, NVIT Art School,


My Ktunuxa name is Kanthupka Kakin (Running Wolf). When I was a young girl of nine years old, my mother sent me to live with my grandmother. Every morning, my grandmother would sit me by the window and I would bead for hours before she would allow me to go out and play. I’ve now been creating my art work for the past 38 years. Today, I create all types of leather work, from moccasins to full-bead regalia. I enjoy challenging projects, and using smaller-sized beads to create intricate designs.

One day, I would like to have enough bead work to fill a parade float just like my grandmother did. I would like to be able to pass these treasures down through my family but also to pass down the skills to my children and grandchildren. My career highlights have been beading for some very well-known and incredible dancers. I love to see my work getting good use at pow-wows.

Doreen ManuelSecwepemc/Ktunaxa

Artist StatementI am inspired by a feeling inside of

me. I see designs in my mind, and I get excited about the many possibilities that bead art offers me.

I believe that each design is a spirit that comes to life, first in one’s mind, and then as it is woven onto buckskin. Although each of my designs is a little different from the next, there is a similarity that is a part of my spirit and my identity. When a design is ready to be set free, it almost jumps onto the buckskin. My hands can barely keep up as I lay the design down.

When I look at pictures of my grandmother’s bead work, I get inspired to create as much as I am able, in order to replace her lost art work. I enjoy creating “old style” bead work, but I also enjoy doing fun things. Lately I have been working on solid beaded Converse running shoes which helps showcase my versatility and innovation.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 604.837.3663Website: www.runningwolf.caMedium: Beads, BuckskinStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Mentored by Mother and Grandmother

Title: Woman on Horse MedallionPrice: $1,000Medium: BeadsDimensions: Contact Artist

Title: Beaded Wolf VestPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: BeadsDimensions: Contact Artist

Title: Beaded Flower on Buckskin BagPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Beads, BuckskinDimensions: Contact Artist

Title: Beaded Converse running shoesPrice: $1,000Medium: Beads, Converse running shoesDimensions: Contact Artist


Amanda’s interest in art was fueled by watching her father and copying his art as a child. Her interest was sparked by the comfort she received from drawing and the ability to express herself.

Today, Amanda still considers her dad, Jack Ned, her greatest influence. In the last five years, Amanda has taken a more dedicated focus to her art. She hopes her work will help people understand that native art is everywhere, and it isn’t necessarily traditional work.

One of Amanda’s beliefs about her art is that she doesn’t want to intend to create something specific.

Rather than create something for somebody, Amanda focuses her energy on what she is feeling at that particular time, and hopes that other people will be able to feel what she felt during the creation of her piece. Amanda’s favourite type of work is ink drawings for their simplicity and flexibility.

Amanda NedSt’at’imc

Artist StatementA lot of my ideas are from pictures

I’ve seen and enjoyed. Most of them are photos I have taken myself. My biggest rule is ‘Don’t let myself be the judge,’ because I’m my worst critic and I would just end up with a basket full of paper.

I’ve worked with a lot of students and children, so the simpleness of my drawings comes from trying to get my point across to young minds. One of my accomplishments has been drawing for a children’s book that will be distributed to lower elementary classes. Ten of my drawing are included in that project.

Another accomplishment is the drawings I have done for the new St’at’imc language book that will be coming out. I have 100 pictures that are going to be published in that book which will be distributed throughout the community. I was able to learn some of the language and meet elders who helped with the accuracy of my drawings.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.256.0674Mediums: Watercolours, Painting, Drawing, Carving, PortraitsStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Heated FlightPrice: $100Medium: InkDimensions: 16” x 20”Description: I have always been im-pressed by a bird’s wingspan.

Title: Cautious EaglePrice: $100Medium: InkDimensions: 18” x 22”Description: Represents my brothers moving forward in life.

Title: Fishing BoyPrice: $150Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 20” x 24”Description: What is he thinking about?

Title: Free FlyPrice: $100Medium: InkDimensions: 16” x 20”Description: A free bird flying high.


Title: MedallionsPrice: $35 and upMedium: Buckskin, Seed Beads - size 10Dimensions: 4” - 5” and up

Title: DreamcatcherPrice: $10 and upMedium: Buckskin, Grapevine, Shells, Grouse Feather, Seed Beads - size 10Dimensions: 4” - 5” and up

Title: KeychainsPrice: $10Medium: Buckskin, Seed Beads - size 10Dimensions: 3”

Title: Christmas OrnamentsPrice: $10Medium: Buckskin, Seed Beads - size 10, SequinsDimensions: 3”

Rhonda was taught how to bead by her mother when she was 11 years old. She would watch her mother sit and bead and began to take an interest in her mother’s art form, and traditional jewellery. Today, Rhonda has been beading for decades and considers her mother to be the biggest influence on Rhonda’s work.

While Rhonda stopped beading for quite some time, she found herself back in it when her children needed something for a craft show at their school. Since then, it has snowballed into something that Rhonda enjoys spending her time on.

One of Rhonda’s biggest achievements was when she was asked by the Prince George art gallery to use some of her work.

Rhonda hopes that her beading will continue to improve the more she works at it because she enjoys working with beads and feels good about her projects when they are complete.

Rhonda NygaardCarrier

Artist StatementI am inspired by the day, and the mood

I’m in. The things I see when I’m really happy inspire me to create. Nature is my biggest inspiration.

My interest in beading came from watching my mother sit there doing bead work, trying to make extra money. I loved watching her work.

I had eight siblings and I was the only one that really liked the native jewellery and the native way. I try to use some Carrier traditions in my work, with symbols and my clan, the Bear clan.

I always put my best into my work. I use the best material available, and authentic materials as much I can.

I always try to use the real buckskin hide, and bone beads. I do my best to explain everything.

I get my ideas from watching different things, looking, and observing. I pay attention to how I feel about things.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.554.7077Mediums: Bead work, BuckskinStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Taught by Mother


Contact Artisan for more information about this piece

Contact Artisan for more information about this piece

Title: Portrait MaskPrice: $2,400Medium: Alder wood, horse hairDimensions: 16” x 19”Description: Portrait mask with horse hair, painted red and black. Beak curves into mouth.

Title: Eagle ChestPrice: $2,800Medium: Red CedarDimensions: 18” x 24”Description: An eagle who is all curled up is carved onto the lid of the chest.

Narcisse is a self-taught carver originally from Kamloops, but lives on the coast of BC and focuses on carving wood in a West Coast native style. Narcisse has been carving for over 30 years and works on totem poles in various sizes, chests, jewellery boxes, plaques, rattles and paddles.

Narcisse had watched other people carve for years before he began his career as an artist. Even though he is from the Interior, Narcisse always found he was attracted to West Coast art.

He is inspired by many master carvers and by seeing their work. However, Narcisse is diligent about creating his own pieces from ideas he has in his head.

All of Narcisse’s work is original and unique. He focuses on carving alder wood, and red and yellow cedar. Narcisse considers his work to be mostly contemporary.

Narcisse BaptisteSecwepemc

Artist InfoPhone: 250.208.6329Mediums: Wood carving, PaintingStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught


Marilyn has been painting pictographs on feathers for the past 12 years and has recently branched into painting pictographs on eggs. She has always been inspired by a rock in Spence’s Bridge that has pictograph paintings on it. Marilyn used to live less than 500 feet from the rock and she would often go out to play and look at it.

Marilyn hopes her pictographs will help create awareness about her cultural art form and the traditions of her people. She values her culture deeply and hopes to keep it alive.

Marilyn’s interest in art stems from when she was young and her mother would come in from the fields and sit with Marilyn. Together they would draw and colour.

Marilyn is inspired today by her love of the work. She strives to create her pictographs in the same form as the pictographs created by her ancestors and doesn’t divert from that.

Marilyn LyttonNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementMy artworks are a mixture of

contemporary and traditional styles. I use natural materials, and traditional design and patterns. I use modern tools and materials, and add my own designs.

Much of the pictograph symbolism in my work is from rock paintings in my traditional territory. My ancestors created pictographs from dreams and spiritual quests.

I’ve visited several sites that have rock paintings, but have yet to see the Stein pictographs. While visiting those sacred sites, I’ve experienced chills like electricity coursing through my body.

It is a sublime experience to see an artwork that was created centuries ago, still lasting today, and will possibly exist centuries after I’ve expired. I’m amazed at the longevity of those paintings, given that they were created from basic earth minerals, or pigments, and mixed with animal grease.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.455.2611Mediums: PictographsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryArt Education: Fine Arts Diploma, UCC, Mentored by Mother

Title: Stein Valley PictographPrice: $20Medium: Acrylic Paint, EggDimensions: 2.5” x 1.5”

Title: Nicola Eagle, Beaver, Grizzly tracksPrice: $100Medium: Acrylic Paint, Turkey FeatherDimensions: Contact Artisan

Title: Unfinished Basketry PictographsPrice: $100Medium: Acrylic Paint, Turkey FeatherDimensions: Contact Artisan

Title: Dip Netting for Sockeye SalmonPrice: $100Medium: Acrylic Paint, Turkey FeatherDimensions: Contact Artisan


Willard, or Kootchie as he is locally known, first began carving wood in high school after his wood work teacher Benny Paul held an art contest with 10 students.

Each of the students had a few months to carve a totem pole, and the teacher ended up giving everybody first prizes. Kootchie was one of two that continued on the art path out of those 10 students. Today, Kootchie focuses on wood carving and wood burning.

Kootchie believes in making statements with art pieces, based on what enters his imagination. Kootchie looks up to Lawrence Paul for the way his pieces make statements about the plight of First Nations people.

One of Kootchie’s most memorable moments as an artist was when his completed totem pole representing North America was shipped to Mexico to be displayed by a local church.

Willard CharlieSecwepemc/St’at’imc

Artist StatementI get my ideas from my mind. I like

to think about things, and make comedy pieces out of different situations.

Now that I have more time, I can take my time with pieces. I’d like to have my own studio, I need space to do my art.

When I first started carving and learning how to do stone sculptures, I didn’t know that you had to take measurements and do a model first. I didn’t do that, I just carved away. Later, I learned how to draw it out and make sure everything was even.

The one part of my culture I include in most of my pieces is my clan, the Frog clan. I always have a frog in my art, everything else is contemporary or added on.

I use mostly soft woods for carving, Yellow cedar, Red cedar, Alder, and Juniper. Lately I’ve been working on wood burning because I just invested in a wood burner.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.256.4667Mediums: Wood, StoneStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Quaaout Resort, OMSA - PentictonArt Education: Self-taught

Title: 3D FrogPrice: $4500Medium: Maple, Seashell inlayed eyes, Bronze cast maskDimensions: 48” x 24” x 24”

Title: Eagle with Frog coming out of its beak, Fish head up-frontPrice: $1500Medium: Grand Canyon SandstoneDimensions: 10” x 4”

Title: MaskPrice: $350Medium: alder, horse hair, painted SeashellDimensions: 7.75” x 3.75”

Title: Totem pole representing North AmericaPrice: $6000Medium: Yellow Cedar, red cedarDimensions: 6’Description: Eagle, Turtle Island, Bear with a Fish in his mouth, Double-headed Frog on base.


Title: EaglePrice: $60Medium: Oil PaintsDimensions: 21” x 32”

Title: Coyote leading a Horse RiderPrice: $3,000Medium: Oil PaintsDimensions: 93” x 48”

Title: Big Horn Sheep and Blacktail BuckPrice: $2,000Medium: Oil PaintsDimensions: 48” x 40”

Title: SongbirdsPrice: $70Medium: Oil PaintsDimensions: 16” x 20”

George grew up in the Xaxlip Nation. George went to the residential school in Kamloops to start Grade 1. Growing up, George wanted to be an artist. He would look at small books with pictures of animals in them, and he would wonder if he could draw the animals the same way they were in the book. George became more interested in different styles of art and learning about traditional art forms. He enjoyed spending his free time colouring different designs.

George finished his education in 1969 and left Kamloops to pursue art. He went to an art school in Victoria where he attended for three years and learned more from his teacher, Saul Terry. Later on in life, George went back to art school in Merritt. He learned different skills about art design and art models. He also learned how to talk about culture and family and how to help others. He wants to teach young children who are interested in becoming artists.

George AdolphSt’at’imc

Artist InfoPhone: 250.256.4953Mediums: Carved Wood, PaintStyle: Contemporary, some TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self Taught, Victoria Art School, NVIT Art School

Artist InfoI’m not a real artist. I’m still learning

different styles and different methods. I enjoy colouring different designs. I like to use markers, pencils and paints.

I really love working on larger projects. I like to look at pictures and when I paint them myself, I change them and make it different by using a different style. I always try to create art that is better than before, or brighter than before. I paint large pictures on walls, either inside out outside with oil paints. I also do free pictures for children for their birthday with their names on it.

Over time, I’ve learned how to be very steady when I hold an art brush. It took me a long time and lots of practice to learn how to handle an art brush and how to control the movement and the mixing of the colours.

I like to paint pictures for holidays, paint on windows and large boards and canvas. I also do some native designs and a bit of carving.


Jada has been drawing ever since she was a young girl. She would sit down with her mother and draw, and sometimes her sister would give her some design ideas.

Ever since then, Jada has continued to work on her art, focusing on it in high school and eventually graduating from university with her Bachelor of Fine Arts.

Jada considers Cindy Sherman, a photographer, and Salvador Dali to be her greatest influences.

Jada hopes that one day she will own a gallery. She wants to help students who are going to university by showing their work to help them earn extra money to cover the costs of their art supplies.

One of Jada’s highlights in her art career so far, has been the ability to see her artwork on someone else’s body. She designed two tattoos, and considers that an accomplishment.

Jada BrittonSecwepemc

Artist StatementI get my ideas from a dream-like, or

created world. My ideas for ink drawings are usually a tattoo-type design.

I enjoy working on ink drawings the most because I like the end result, how the ink looks on the page.

The collages I do are from a bunch of things mixed up together. I usually create something random.

I’ll take something like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and add it in with something else. I like that it doesn’t have to be realistic, because it’s something that I have created

My interest in art was sparked from my mom, and my art teachers in high school. Having people tell me my work was good was what helped me move on with my art from there.

Eventually I would like to be able to work with traditional Shuswap art styles and learn more about it.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.574.5232Mediums: Photography, Ink, PaintStyle: ContemporaryExhibit History: TRU Graduate ShowAffiliations: Community-based groupArt Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts

Title: UntitledPrice: $600Medium: Acrylic paintDimensions: 18” x 13” x 8”Description: Hand-painted Cow skull. White base coloured with copper floral decorative design that flows across its surface.

Title: Tribal NaturePrice: $150Medium: Pen and FeltDimensions: 8.5” x 14”Description: A unique and creatively designed scene of nature. A tribal-like representation, with flowers, rain and insects.

Title: French Kiss PhotographyPrice: $1,000Medium: Black and White PhotographyDimensions: 3’ x 4’Description: A mural-size black and white photograph, taken from a col-lage of images found in advertisements. Laminated and framed.

Title: Wynona’s TattooPrice: PricelessMedium: InkDimensions: 6” x 4”Description: This was a tattoo I created for my sister. It is a fairy and inside of her tribal wings are the initials of her fiancé and two children.


Title: The Griz, The Owner of the PathPrice: $265Medium: Cedar wood hand drumDimensions: 12” x 2.5”Description: Respect for the natural or-der of things and the understanding that wildlife needs to continue to be respected and left alone to live their humble lives.

Title: Golden Eagle DrumPrice: sold for $165Medium: elk hide, cedarDimensions: 12” x 2.5”Description: I have always admired the elegance and prestige of how an eagle represents the natural order.

Title: In the Shadow of SklepPrice: sold for $165Medium: elk hide, cedarDimensions: Description: “You Know...That is what learning is...You suddenly understand something you understood all your life!”

Title: Life Cycle Hand DrumPrice: $265Medium: elk hide, cedarDimensions: 12” x 2.5”Description: Four Direction Understand-ing. Four Nations of the World. Four Stages of Learning. Four Seasons of the Year. This is the Four World we live in.

Joe Thomas began his journey as a hand drum maker over 25 years ago. He hopes that his hand drums will help create an ethical understanding of Secwepemc culture.

Joe creates traditional hand drums but also likes to make use of contemporary techniques by adding air brushed designs to his drums.

Joe’s interest in learning the process of creating a hand drum was fueled by his desire to learn more about his background and who he is as a person. Joe found that as he did more research into his culture, he began to understand himself and feel himself become more stable.

Joe has met and learned from different elders from various places in Canada and the United States. He has learned specialized techniques that he says many people haven’t ever seen. It takes Joe less than four days to get a hide to the stage where he can create a hand drum. Joe says people are amazed at his ability to clean a hide with his bare hands.

Joe ThomasSecwepemc/Kinbasket

Artist StatementMy favourite part of the process is

when I create something and I let it go and it becomes alive on it’s own. I find that to be a true creation.

My ideas come from changing and understanding those cultures of where I’m at. I’ve lived in over nine aboriginal communities across North America.

I get inspired when I see the glimmer of hope in childrens’ eyes when you can play a bone game and are able to play a trick on them, without insulting them. It helps create a base of curiosity based on cultural values.

I use the Shuswap cultural methods, and other aboriginal cultural methods to go through the process of cleaning a hide and creating hand drums.

I used to drum and dance, but I’ve moved away from that and started to design hand drums with the idea of coyote because I believe coyote is our consciousness. Based on that, I continue to see if I can be creative and self-sufficient at the same time

Artist InfoPhone: 250.458.2226Email: [email protected]: Hand DrumsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissions


Title: BC Flag Amulet BagPrice: $350Medium: Hex beadsDimensions: 1.5” square plus fringeDescription: Amulet Bag representing BC with a colour-coordinated unique design on the back. 850 to 900 beads per side.

Title: White Buffalo EarringsPrice: $50Medium: Hex-15 beadsDimensions: 0.75”Description: White Buffalo Calf Woman

Title: Maple Leaf EarringsPrice: $50Medium: Hex-15 beadsDimensions: 1” plus fringeDescription: Original Creation

Title: Turquoise Beaded Jewellery SetPrice: $50Medium: Hex-15 beadsDimensions: 1” x 1.25” plus fringeDescription: Necklace and Earring Set

Wendy first started beading over 35 years ago after seeing beautiful beadwork as a young girl. She thought that she would be able to do it so she bought supplies, but soon realized that beautiful bead work takes time and patience. Wendy kept practicing until she was satisfied with the quality of her work.

Most of Wendy’s pieces have stories that go with them, so Wendy enjoys sharing the knowledge of her ancestors when she tells the story of each piece.

When Wendy creates amulet bags she focuses her energy on prayer and puts the prayer into the bag, so that each amulet bag is a tool that will help the wearer in the healing path.

Wendy hopes that eventually she can focus on using the teachings of the medicine wheel to help others learn about how the medicine wheel can help and how to live balanced lives.

Wendy RetasketSecwepemc

Artist StatementI would rather bead than do anything

else. So many ideas just keep coming to me. Some of my ideas come to me in dreams. Other ideas come to me after I’ve smudged my paper.

Many of my designs are unique creations and one-of-a- kind pieces.

In order to do a good project, I need to be balanced. Every time I create something, I go in my beading room and I smudge my beads and my beading room so there is total peace in there.

I like to bead all kinds of projects, but I really enjoy working on medicine wheel medallions. Each one I create is numbered. The medicine wheel is an amazing tool to work with throughout your life.

I’m a medicine wheel facilitator and what I would really like to do is to work my way out of poverty and go everywhere I can to share my knowledge.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.457.5356Mediums: BeadworkStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Washington State University


Title: Black Bear with Bear DesignPrice: sold for $1,000Medium: Coloured PencilDimensions: 17” x 24”

Title: Woodpecker and Cougar Price: $1,000Medium: Coloured PencilDimensions: 17” x 24”

Title: Bald Eagle with Eagle TotemPrice: sold for $1,000Medium: Coloured PencilDimensions: 17” x 24”

Title: Two Timberwolves in the ForestPrice: $1,000Medium: Coloured PencilDimensions: 17” x 24”

Luther has been an artist for as long he can remember. When he was young, his parents encouraged him to create art. However, it wasn’t until he made a trip to Bella Coola, BC that he began to focus more actively on his artwork.

Since then, he has been selling his work for over 11 years. Luther’s goal is to create as many originals as he can. He is always working on a new piece, making each one different and better from the last. Luther hopes that his artwork will eventually lead to self-sufficiency.

Luther looks up to one artist he met in Bella Coola, Richard Scooner. Richard taught Luther about different types of art, selling work, and the barter system.

Luther considers his work traditional and contemporary because of his unique combinations of wildlife images with native design elements placed within the main image.

Luther BrigmanSt’at’imc

Artist StatementThe kind of work I do, I call it wildlife

native art. It’s a combination of realistic wildlife designs with native influences.

I started developing my style when I spent some time in Bella Coola. I went there when I was 17 years old and stayed there for a few years.

I watched people create their artwork and I started incorporating elements of their style with mine.

I get my new ideas from wildlife, and going out into the forest, or anywhere in the woods.

I use coloured pencil for my drawings because it allows me finer detail in the drawing, rather than a paintbrush. It’s also a lot cleaner than painting.

I get inspired by new challenges and drawing new things. I like drawing something that’s harder or something that’s different than what I’ve done before. I like testing myself.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.256.3787Mediums: Coloured Pencil DrawingsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Lillooet First Nation Band Office, Coast Canadian Inn in Kamloops.


Opie has always been fueled by his desire to create. Creating was the only thing Opie could picture himself doing for a living. He has been an artist for over 40 years and hopes that his work will help bring recognition to Interior people, in terms of art. Opie, never satisfied with being still, has recently taken up sand blasting designs onto glassware.

One of his biggest accomplishments was winning an award at the BC Indian Arts & Crafts Show. He was recognized as the number 1 booth and display among artists from across the province. Opie is influenced by artists who value belief systems of quality and balance and incorporate those beliefs into their daily lives.

Not only is Opie a talented artist, he is also a gifted comedian and motivational speaker who does performances for conventions, conferences, and gatherings.

Opie OppenheimNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementI am inspired by life, my children and

my grandchildren, and the questions they have and what they see with their eyes. They are the ones that spur me on.

I enjoy working on jewellery. I’m doing a lot of wedding rings for couples, and I get to play a part in their lives. Men buy bracelets for their wives, and I am a part of making people happy, and that’s why I like to do jewellery.

I get my ideas from nature, real life experiences, and legends. All my colours come from nature. It is the greatest palette I have to work with.

Art is one way of speaking and sharing. My work is not just a picture, it’s a drawing of a legend that has a story and a teaching to it. Creating the piece is like spreading the message. My work is all geared towards principles, good things. When the piece goes into a home, that completes the message and makes me happy.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.378.5719Mediums: Silver and Gold Jewellery, Originals, Prints, Pottery, SoapstoneStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Five Wolves BraceletPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Sterling SilverDimensions: 2”

Title: Feather BraceletPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Sterling SilverDimensions: 1”

Title: Dragonfly PendantPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Sterling SilverDimensions: 2” x 2.5”

Title: UntitledPrice: Contact ArtistMedium: Limited Edition PrintDimensions: 24” x 18”


Title: The TradePrice: $150Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: 6” x 4” x 3”Description: A smudge bowl depicting a St’at’imc holding stwan (dry salmon) in preparation for a trade. The St’at’imc have traded dry salmon for many years.

Title: Zawem (Fishing with a dipnet)Price: $150Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: Contact ArtistDescription: The Fraser River has been a source of food to traditional fishermen for many years, fishing with a dipnet is one way of making a catch.

Title: June cartoon in St’at’imc RunnerPrice: N/AMedium: Pen on PaperDimensions: 8.5” x 11”Description: This concept might be inter-esting for some families , as the language is becoming more scarce. It could be a quiet day. Practice your language.

Title: May cartoon in St’at’imc RunnerPrice: N/AMedium: Pen on PaperDimensions: 8.5” x 11”Description: nlepcalten, Garden. It is a fact that most have the ability to garden. It saves money, provides for quality food. This depicts a common barrier.

While Jack likes to create many different types of art, locally he is known for his cartoon strip, Tsun, which is published in the St’at’imc Runner, a monthly aboriginal local newspaper. Tsun in the St’at’imc language means Say, Speak, Think. Jack uses his cartoons as a way of drawing attention to the traditional ways and the language of the St’at’imc people.

Jack hopes that his work will help him achieve self-sufficiency. His goal is to eventually have a small art gallery, gift shop and studio on his property. Jack also hopes that his cartoons will not only be able to make people laugh, but will also help people to carry on the teachings and the traditions that they have had.

Jack doesn’t miss out on the chance to educate people about the language and culture. He integrates his language into his daily life, and also uses his carvings and war clubs as a teaching tool about the St’at’imc way of life.

Jack NedSt’at’imc

Artist StatementMy first inspiration to become an artist

was brought on by encouraging my son to be an artist.

He told me that most native art was focused on feathers and eagles, so I began to draw comics featuring eagles. I had them picking berries, fishing, and fixing cars. The eagles were doing things that represented who we are.

The St’at’imc Runner only features one of my cartoons each month, but in the process, I do anywhere from 7 to 12 cartoons. I set a rule for myself where I have to draw five new drawings each day, which helps me focus on my art. My lunch hours are usually spent drawing.

I get my ideas from conversations. I carry around a piece of paper and write things down when I hear something funny.

I use my cartoons as a tool to create awareness of our St’at’imc language and traditional ways.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.256.0674Mediums: Cartoons, Caricature, Soapstone, JadeStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryExhibits: Aboriginal Art - TRU, Miya-zaki House


Carla began beading flowers and other plants over three years ago when her husband’s aunt taught Carla how to create them. Now, Carla does a wide range of flowers and plants, from pussy willows, to pine cones. She also works on necklaces, bracelets and other jewellery, as well as selling beads. She hopes that eventually she will be able to open a bead shop and sell beads to other beaders, and still do bead work in her spare time.

Carla’s interest in art was sparked by her father, who was also an artist. She remembers being a young girl and looking at his sketches and drawings of animals and wildlife.

While Carla also does some drawing, sketching and painting, she has always considered those to be hobbies. What Carla likes about beading is how relaxing it is, and how she surprises herself by creating things she would have never thought she would be able to create.

Carla Grinder-LeonSecwepemc

Artist StatementI enjoy beading because it’s relaxing.

I first learned how to bead from my husband’s aunt.

After she showed me how to make them, I would go look in different places for flowers and then bead them. I try to use different colours than the actual flower, or I look on the Internet to see what colours the flowers come in.

I get my ideas from the wildflowers that I see in nature or in flower gardens.Sometimes, I’ll admire someone’s flowers in their garden and they will cut one out of the garden and give it to me. Then I’ll bead the flower and bring back one over to them.

I enjoy beading things that are challenging. I beaded a hummingbird, that was a challenge.

I’ve also beaded a Christmas cactus, everybody saw it and some people ordered more. I also do Christmas wreathes with pinecones and actual pine needles.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.679.7689Email: [email protected]: Beaded flowersCommissions: I accept commissionsStyle: ContemporaryArt Education: Mentored

Title: Tiger LiliesPrice: $40Medium: Beads, wire, floral tapeDimensions: 14”Description:

Title: Small RosesPrice: $20Medium: Beads, wire, floral tapeDimensions: 4.5”Description:

Title: Butterfly necklacesPrice: $20Medium: Beads, wireDimensions: 2.5” x 2”Description:

Title: Poppy PinsPrice: $15Medium: Beads, WireDimensions: 2” diameterDescription:


Title: The Look Out EaglePrice: $6500Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: 30” tallDescription: The golden eagle has been known to be seen around the Mountain called The Look Out.

Title: Shape-shifter EaglePrice: $5500Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: 20” x 16” x 24”Description: The transformation of man into the eagle.

Title: Mama and Baby BearsPrice: $2400Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: 12” x 6” x 6”Description: Depiction of nature.

Title: The River PeoplePrice: $4000Medium: Brazilian SoapstoneDimensions: 12” x 12” x 16” highDescription: Mother Earth giving us salmon in the Fraser River.

Les first began carving ten years ago, as a means to support himself and create work for him at the time. He started carving stone because of it’s complexity and how challenging it was. Every time Les starts a new project, he tries to challenge himself by using a harder medium. When he first began carving, he started working with soapstone. Since then, he has graduated to marble and his next goal is granite.

Les’s biggest achievement has been the project he is working on now, a 1,200 pound marble statue of an Italian summer god. The statue will be located at a senior citizen’s complex in Merritt, BC, where Les currently lives. Les looks up to his uncle Patrick McKay. Patrick is a paraplegic, but he was a carver for over 30 years. Les was inspired by his uncle’s perseverance and it spurred him to carry on the family tradition. Les hopes to achieve well-being for himself through his carving and to create a legacy to pass on to his son.

Leslie HamptonNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementMy interest in art was sparked by Inuit

art because it was really fascinating to me. It made me want to try carving stone and eventually I just stuck right with it.

I get my ideas from many places. Some come from my head, others are replica pieces. I came up with my own ideas for saving our salmon. Mother Earth gave us the salmon, so we have to respect her in that same sense.

I am inspired by my wife and son, and how proud they are of me when I achieve a finished project. Awhile ago, I was involved with a gallery here in Merritt. It was inspiring for me when they asked me to name the place and to go into business with them.

I try to integrate my culture and traditions in some of my work. I go back to tradition and I replicate our artifacts. One of my upcoming projects is a seated human figure bowl, super-sized.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.2481Email: [email protected]: StoneCommissions: I accept commissionsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryArt Education: Self-taughtExhibit History: Montana Indian Summer Fair


Shannon started sewing at the early age of 8 years old. After high school she went straight into fashion design. She started off in an arts program, but used her portfolio to get into fashion. She started the program in Vancouver at Kwantlen College, but finished up at NVIT in Merritt.

Her interest in fashion stems from making outfits for her dolls when she was younger, which led to sewing for her friends later on. Shannon has been in the fashion design industry for 13 years. Shannon’s focus is on creating contemporary interpretations of cultural concepts. Shannon tries to create garments that are comfortable and easy-wear, easy-care. Most of Shannon’s articles are designed for women, but from time to time she will create pieces for men, or children.

Currently, Shannon is trying to get together a ready-to-wear line mainly targeted at plus-size women.

Shannon KilroyNlaka’pamux

Artist Statement Getting into my studio helps to inspire

me and motivate me. I’d buy some fabric and bring it into my studio, and all of the sudden I’m working on a pattern and having a lot of fun with it.

It helps me forget about some of the problems I am having in my life, or other stuff that is going on. Just shutting the studio door and getting in my workspace and letting the creative process start.

I get my ideas from looking through books, history books, or going into a fabric store. I’ll see fabric and all of the sudden I can see all these different things being made out of it.

I enjoy getting really creative. I like doing custom work. It can be fun to work with a customer to creative something really fun and unique, and one-of-a-kind.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.3901Mediums: Fashion DesignCommissions: I accept commissionsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryArt Education: Fashion Design - Kwantlen College, NVITExhibit History: Fashion Shows in Germany, San Francisco, Albuquerque,Toronto, and VancouverAwards: Best Fashion Designer, New Fashion Designer, Kamloops

Title: Painted Blanket JacketPrice: $650Medium: Pendleton WoolDimensions: Various sizes available

Title: Fringed Deer Hide JacketPrice: $1800Medium: Buckskin, BeadsDimensions: Various sizes availableDescription: Hand laced with beaded rosettes on the front and back

Title: ‘Coyote and Buffalo’ JacketPrice: $550Medium: 100% SilkDimensions: Description: Lined, collarless jacket, with Legend of the Buffalo and Coyote design.

Title: Painted Blanket JacketPrice: $500Medium: Pendleton WoolDimensions: Various sizes available


Title: Baby MoccasinsPrice: $50Medium: Buckskin, BeadsDimensions: Various sizesDescription: Moccasins come in a wide range of styles and beaded designs

Title: Bridal SetPrice: $1,750Medium: BeadsDescription: 8” beaded ring pillow, two 4” centerpieces, flower girl basket, beaded bouquet with 8 french beaded flowers, stained glass box

Title: Decorative Flower ArrangementPrice: $250Dimensions: 12” x 12”Description: French beaded flowers with a stained glass hummingbird resting on a deer antler, with a dreamcatcher in the background

Title: Pin CushionPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Buckskin BeadsDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Decorative Pin Cushion

Six years ago, Doreen began working with stained glass. After that she also began experimenting with moccasins and bead work. Now, Doreen creates moccasins, specialty bead work, special flower arrangements and stained glass pieces of all kinds.

Her most helpful tool has been her patience to sit and ask questions from her elders. Doreen enjoys making personalized stained glass monuments. There are currently 20 of Doreen’s monuments in cemeteries in the Interior of BC. Doreen learned how to create stained glass stepping stones and from there she progressed to the larger monuments.

Doreen hopes that her work will help her gain recognition for her unique stained glass work. She would like to do more monuments, but she also enjoys making moccasins. She also donates stepping stones, many of which she ends up donating to various sports fundraisers.

Doreen KenorasSecwepemc

Artist StatementI started off with just learning how to

do a simple stepping stone. After I had completed the stepping stone I thought I could make a bigger and better one. From there I started doing the monuments.

When I look back on my work and what I’ve done, I can see that my work has improved quite a bit.

Before I start a new project, I usually have to sit and think about how the project is going to flow. After a couple of days of thinking, the idea will come to me, and that’s when I start.

Every time I work, I have to be in a good mood. If I’m not going to put out happy work, then I won’t do it. Just being in a good mood the day I do work, then I’ll continue.

What inspires me is that my kids and grandchildren see me doing the work, and hopefully they can learn from what I’ve learned and carry it on.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.679.3783Mediums: Bead Work, Stained GlassStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Native Artisan Showcase and SaleArt Education: Self-taught


Shane, who also goes by the name Raven Crow, has been working on his drawings for the past twenty years. When he first got into drawing, his focus was mainly on pin-up style posters and other drawings suited to tattoo and motorcycle magazines.

Lately, Shane has focused on traditional native-style designs. His increased awareness and understanding of the ideas behind the story-telling has made him enjoy the process of creative native designs more. Shane hopes that people will understand where he is coming from and show people a part of the world they haven’t seen before, or emotions that surprise them also. Shane’s art career has led him on a path of personal growth and development. When he first started drawing, he focused on one style of drawing, but after expanding his art form, he has also expanded his knowledge about art, techniques, and more importantly, himself as a person and what he is capable of.

Shane FlorenceThompson

Artist StatementWhen I was about 8 or 9 years old, I

started drawing UFO’s, spaceships and aliens. I loved to surprise myself and feel proud.

When I create a drawing, I look at it for a while and ask myself how I created that, or where I got the idea from. I am constantly surprising myself.

Ever since then, I’ve stuck with it. It was gratifying for me to get outside of myself and produce something that I didn’t know I could create.

I’m influenced by Robert Bateman. He creates drawings that are real and perfect. They are scaled and proportions. I want my creations to come close to that, I also want to get into air-brushing.

I’m inspired by admiration and being gratified that I can make somebody smile and be happy to have one of my drawings on their wall.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.455.2410Mediums: Ink, Pen, Felt and Charcoal DrawingsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionExhibit History: Tattoo Shops, Tattoo MagazinesAwards: Certificate for AnimationArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Eagle HeartPrice: $80Medium: Felt and InkDimensions: 2’ x 3’Description: Man on a journey through his drum, waiting for his song to come.

Title: The MessengerPrice: $80Medium: FeltDimensions: 2’ x 3’

Title: Pride is Humility UnboundPrice: $120Medium: Pen and InkDimensions: 2’ x 3’

Title: Eagle To TalesPrice: $70Medium: Felt, Charcoal, Coloured PencilDimensions: 2’ x 3’Description: Journey of the twin eagles to the sun and moon.


Title: Long Stemmed RosesPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Beads, Wire, Floral TapeDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Single long stemmed roses available in various colours.

Title: Beaded CorsagesPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Beads, Ribbon, Wire, Floral Tape,Dimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Corsages for weddings or graduation available in various colours.

Title: Bride & Groom Toast GlassesPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Beads, Ribbon, WireDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Beaded decorative flowers attached to toast glasses for the Bride and Groom to use during their reception

Title: Long Stemmed Roses in VasesPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Beads, Wire, Floral TapeDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Long stemmed roses in vases with decorative ribbon

Gloria started creating beaded jewellery over 40 years ago. She learned how to bead from a friend of hers who lived in Alaska. Gloria’s friend was always beading when Gloria went to visit her, and after awhile Gloria asker her friend to teach her how to bead.

Gloria remembers her first sale because she was so excited that someone would be interested in buying something that she had created. That first sale was what helped encourage her to continue on with her bead work.

Gloria focuses on roses, and does jewellery by request. She enjoys making roses, especially the larger ones. She likes to finish her projects and then display it to admire how beautiful the roses turned out.

Gloria hopes that her beading will help make extra money because she only has her pension to depend on. Gloria loves beading, and enjoys how her work keeps her occupied.

Gloria AdamsOkanagan

Artist StatementI love doing my beading. I like it when

people see my work and enjoy it, and tell me how beautiful it is. That really encourages me when people tell me that they love my work.

I really look up to my sister Nancy Saddleman, she doesn’t do much beading but she makes beautiful moccasins, gloves and vests all out of buckskin that she tans herself.

Once I’ve not been beading for awhile, and I try to do it again, I start making mistakes. I have to work at it every day to keep my focus.

My bead work helps me forget about the temptation to drink again. I have been sober for 7 years now, and my roses keep me occupied.

Sometimes I get lonely, and late at night I think about going out, but then I focus on my beading and my roses and it keeps me from doing bad things.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 604.694.1368Mediums: Bead workStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Pow Wow’s, Craft SalesArt Education: Self-taught, mentored


Title: Haida Totem PolePrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: ArgilliteDescription: Contact artisan for more information about this piece.

Title: Haida Totem Price: Contact ArtisanMedium: ArgilliteDescription: Contact artisan for more information about this piece.

Title: UntitledPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: ArgilliteDescription: Contact artisan for more information about this piece.

Title: UntitledPrice: Contact Artisan Medium: ArgilliteDescription: Contact artisan for more information about this piece.

Chad just started carving two years ago and has only been selling his work for little less than one year. Chad lives in Lytton, which is far away from his home, Haida Gwaii.

In Lytton, Chad was able to learn how to carve from Charles Brown, a local soapstone carver. Chad still considers Charles to be one of the biggest influences on his work. Chad credits Charles for teaching him to be the carver he is today.

Chad works with argillite, which is a rare stone that is only found on Haida Gwaii. He carves argillite because he always thought that the carvings were the most beautiful, of all the Haida art forms.

Chad constantly researches Haida style and art form. He works tirelessly at perfecting his style and ensuring the accuracy of his depictions. So early in his carving career, Chad considers any piece that he completes and sells to be an accomplishment.

Chad PollardHaida

Artist StatementI’m inspired by the fact that I hope to

make a career out of my art and carvings. It would be a labour of love.

I try to create really beautiful pieces and try to bring images out of my mind and make them real.

With Haida art, it’s not something that you can just jump into and do whatever you want.

It’s restricting in a way, with the form lines, they’re very strict. There’s a lot of freedom, but at the same time, everything has to be balanced and symmetrical.

When I’m putting together a pole, it’s not just random figures, it’s based on a myth, so all the figures are related.

My culture is a big part of my work. I don’t just look at the pictures, I read philosophies and pay attention to the old masters.

Most of my ideas come from Haida books, and my memories of the Charlottes and the old poles up there. My style is steeped in traditions and myths.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: ArgilliteStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryArt Education: Self-taught/Mentored


Title: Jar CandlesPrice: $10Dimensions: 4 oz. Description: Home made candles available in a wide range of scents from cucumber melon to gramma’s kitchen. All natural ingredients

Title: Primitive PotpourriPrice: $10Dimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Home made potpourri available in a wide range of scents from butter cream to sugar cookie.All natural ingredients

Title: Decorative SignPrice: $25Dimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Signs are available in vari-ous sizes with over four different phrasesContact Artisan for more details

Title: Wax Dipped BearPrice: $25Description: Waxed dipped bears are available in either Honey or BrownContact Artisan for more details

Cody decided to start her business, Rustic Esscentials, after recognizing the need for unique products made from natural ingredients. Cody has three small children, so she wanted a job that she would be able to do from home and on her own time.

Three years ago, Cody decided to start making the products that she does, after realizing that there was a lack of similar products available locally. The candles that Cody creates are 100 per cent natural soy candles. The potpourri that she creates is also all natural, using rose hips, pine cones, and cinnamon sticks.

Cody enjoys making the candles the most, and likes to experiment with new ideas. One of her new candle products is a Cinna-bun candle that looks like a cinnamon bun and has a bakery scent. She gets her ideas from doing lots of research on the Internet

Cody’s long-term goal is to open up her own store.

Cody StewartSecwepemc

Artist StatementI want to create stuff that is unique and

different. Products that not everybody else has, but I think that other people would life.

I went through a Community Futures program where I learned a lot about counting and how to run a business. After that I registered my business and run it out of my home now.

I know it’s stuff that I wanted for myself that I couldn’t find. I thought I would try just making it and other people ended up being interested in it too.

I am actually really enjoying my business, I enjoy the work, and I like being able to stay home to do it. My kids are also pretty involved in helping me.

I do home parties, so I have people that I send invites out to and ask them to bring a friend.

I also go out to lots of craft fairs and people see me and my products, or hear about them through word-of-mouth.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.573.5527Email: [email protected]: www.rusticesscentials.comStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught


Pat, whose Cree name means Half Moon, has been creating Birch bark bitings for the past 14 years. She first got involved with her work after seeing an elder’s work. Pat was concerned about it becoming a lost art because no one was doing the art form at that type except her, that Pat knew of in that area.

Pat would eventually like to create a book about Birch bark bitings and do workshops for youth and children. She would also like to do some shows that are unique and different from the things she does now and have her work in galleries.

Some of Pat’s favourite memories are from when she would go into the bush with her children from the time that they were small. They would go and offer the tobacco and collect her bark.

She enjoys the bitings because it frees up her mind from everything. It’s healing and it stops her from thinking of anything else.

Pat BrudererMetis/Cree

Artist StatementThere are a lot of teachings that go

along with my work. I’m inspired by how healing it is do create the Birch bark bitings.

I go through roughly twelve stages before a piece is finished. It’s more than just biting, there are a lot of stages that you need to do. It’s a lot of clear thinking and having a clear mind.

My interest was sparked from knowing that it was a northern Saskatchewan art form, that’s where my mother’s roots are from. Also knowing that it was becoming a lost art.

I get my ideas from things I remember from my childhood. The designs in northern Cree work were all really elaborate.

I have an alcohol and drug free life. I think if I didn’t have that, I wouldn’t even think about touching my work.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.679.8589Mediums: Birch Bark BitingsStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibits: Manitoba Juried Art Show, Trappers Festival Juried Art ShowAwards: 1st and 2nd in juried art showArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Jingle DancersPrice: $90, unframedMedium: Birch Bark BitingsDimensions: 6” x 3”

Title: Morning OfferingPrice: $120, unframedMedium: Birch Bark BitingsDimensions: 8” diameterDescription: Water being brought into the teepee in the morning.

Title: PartnersPrice: $150Medium: Birch Bark BitingsDimensions: 10” x 5”Description: Represents two working together in harmony.

Title: Four RacesPrice: $180Medium: Birch Bark BitingsDimensions: 8” diameterDescription: Representing the four races of people.


Russell began carving stone in the spring of 2002 as a hobby and a way to occupy his time. Eventually that led to Russell working on stone full-time and generating income from what started out as an interest.

Russell carves for his own enjoyment and really enjoys carving stone masks because he likes the way they turn out once they are finished.

Russell hopes to go into harder stone, such as granite and marble once he has the right tools to carve harder stone properly.

He enjoys reading magazines about native art and looks up to an artist from the States, who is in one of the magazines that also does stone carving.

Russell can’t remember what sparked his interest in stone carving. He started out looking for a hobby and had liked the idea of rock and stone, so that led him to try his hand at carving stone. He doesn’t have any highlights so far, but looks forward to having some in the future

Russell AdolphSt’at’imc

Artist StatementI get my ideas from books and

magazines. There’s a magazine that I get, it comes out about every two months. It’s a wildlife art magazine.

I like to go through it and see what’s in there. I also like to create realistic animals. For now though, I’m just playing around with forms and shapes.

In terms of my culture, I do some animal costumes from real animal hides. I have done a wolverine, a coyote, and I’m getting two cougars made up too. Those are already all sold. They were my first ones, so I was experimenting with the concepts. Hopefully later on I’ll find a market for them.

I get my stone from a stone dealer in Surrey. He sells all different types of stone, alabaster, soapstone, and other types of stone. That saves me from going to look for the stone. It’s already there, he’s got different dimensions, so it’s easier to pick.

Artist InfoEmail: [email protected]: 250.250.256.4933Mediums: StoneStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Victoria Art GalleryArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Spirit BearPrice: $800Medium: White Italian AlabasterDimensions: 10” x 7” x 5”

Title: Red Cedar MaskPrice: $2,500Medium: Red Cedar, Abalone Eyes, Horse HairDimensions: 14” x 10” x 6”

Title: Owl MaskPrice: $1,200Medium: Red Cedar, Abalone Eyes, Ermine Skin tasselsDimensions: 12” x 11” x 5”

Title: UntitledPrice: $1,500Medium: White Italian Alabaster, Horse hairDimensions: 12” x 9” x 6”


Flo has been creating jewellery from semi-precious gemstones, crystals, shells and bone for just over two years. Originally, she started out doing traditional beadwork but found that the small beads were too hard on her eyes. Her main philosophy is to help First Nations people acknowledge the traditional values that were practiced years ago by the ancestors.

Flo considers a book called Dancing with the Medicine Wheel by Sun Bear to be the biggest influence on her work and in her life. Flo’s interest in gemstones and the teaching they have stem from her own general interest and appreciation of her birthstone, Amethyst.

Flo has spent a great deal of her time volunteering with elders. They have all been a great influence on her work and on her work and in her life. Flo strives for quality in her work and always tries her best to create unique pieces focusing on the lessons the stones contain.

Flo RobertsonNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementI’d like to help our people make the

connection between the gemstones and how they are created by Mother Earth.

I’d also like to help them learn the values of the gemstones because that comes out of the medicine wheel. All the animals, even colours, and the gemstones, they all have strengths and teachings to give us. They are just waiting for us to learn. Our people always valued our rocks from Mother Earth for centuries, so it’s not a new thing.

I really appreciate and value the keen interest our very, very young children are having when they’re able to see pieces of minerals that I have on display on my table. When you tell them that this came right from Mother Earth, their eyes just light up and they’re so interested in that.

I would like to get to know the common gemstones around Kamloops, now that I’ve moved here. So that’s my next goal, to study our own rocks and minerals right around us.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.573.5282Mediums: gemstones, jewelleryStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Traditional Design Bone NecklacePrice: $65Medium: Turquoise, Abalone Shell, Coral, OnyxDimensions: 34” L with 2-3” extensionDescription: The Bear represents cau-tion, fortitude, bravery, good decisions, and leadership, among other qualities.

Title: Abalone Choker & EarringsPrice: $20 for setMedium: Abalone, Zwarosky CrystalDescription: Abalone represents balance, alignment, healing, nobility, honesty, calmness, serenity, and aids creativity.

Title: Butterfly Necklace & EarringsPrice: $35Medium: Rose Quartz, Zwarosky CrystalDescription: Rose Quartz represents love, balance, self-worth, catharsis, flex-ibility, emotional healing, universal love, and heals abuse.

Title: Turquoise ChokerPrice: $10Medium: TurquoiseDimensions: Turquoise represents pro-tection, safety, ceremonial, rain making, healing, spiritual, and is used as a pre-ventative healing stone.


Done has been creating his Haida and other West Coast style creations for most of his life. He focuses on carving and painting various designs based on what he has learned over the years about design elements and shapes. Don’s art career began at an early age. When he went to residential school, he was in his first year and they gave out candies as prizes for artwork.

Don hopes that one day he will be able to find and develop his own style of artwork. After that, he would like to be able to sell his work world-wide and be recognized as an artist. His ultimate goal is to become self-sufficient and he understands that to do that, his work has to be recognized as exceptional.

Don likes to create pieces based on whatever he is feeling or thinking on that particular day. He looks up to local artists Dave Seymour and Opie Oppenheim.

Don IsadoreSecwepemc

Artist StatementIf a piece is to my liking, then I feel

good about myself and the work that I’ve done.

If I don’t like the way it turned out, then I keep trying till I get it right. It can be frustrating when you can’t get it the way you see it in your head.

Right now, I’m enjoying carving. I’ve done carving before, but have never really gotten into it until now.

I need better tools to begin doing more things. I’m only using a hobby knife set right now.

I consider my work to be a mixture of both traditional and contemporary styles. I like to look at books. Some Haida books show different styles and ways to create different shapes, such as, eyes and tails.

I like to take things I see and learn and then add my own ideas to complete a piece.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.828.1929Mediums: Carving, PaintingStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Kamloops Art GalleryArt Education: Self-taught

Title: SwanPrice: $375Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 24” x 30”

Title: HeronPrice: $325Medium: Combination of various types of wood.Dimensions: 5.75” x 15.5”

Title: Mountain Goat (unfinished)Price: $400, when completedMedium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 14” x 22”

Title: LoonPrice: $375Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 2’ x 2’


Robert uses several different mediums to express his creativity. He enjoys air brushing, antler carving, painting, creating chain saw sculptures, jewellery, and some carving in fine rocks.

To Robert, it’s a soothing, or calming remedy, to do his art. Once he starts a piece, he continues to work on it until the piece is finished. Sometimes a piece may take Robert up to a year to complete, due to the size of the pieces he creates.

Robert’s interest in art was sparked when he lived in Prince Rupert. He watched the west coast artists make a living at creating their work and he saw the pride they took in their finished pieces.

Robert strives to capture the movement in colour. His goal is to capture the wind and the light and to relay that to other people.

Robert has been creating his work for over 30 years. He hopes that eventually he’ll be able to retire and focus on his art all of the time.

Robert McCallumCree

Artist StatementI feel my best training has to come

from spending most of my time in the great outdoors.

There is no greater way to capture the movement of colours then to be there at that exact time and place.

With that and a little imagination you set off to create a memory for others to enjoy.

When I start a painting, I want each piece to work both up close and from across the room.

The colours must be captivating so the person viewing them will be drawn up close, giving them a better perspective of the effort and feeling that was put into each piece.

Hopefully it will spark a memory in their own minds because each painting was created in just that way.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.242.1108Mediums: Painting, CarvingStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Scholes Art GalleryAwards: Peace River, Regional AwardArt Education: Self-taught

Title: UntitledPrice: Contact ArtisanMedium: Acrylic

Title: A Place to DreamPrice: $250Medium: Acrylic

Title: Evening FlightPrice: $225Medium: Acrylic

Title: Friends on the LakePrice: $225Medium: Acrylic

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Gwayne has been working on his art since 1986. It was at that time that he had three of his pieces given away as prizes in an Expo ‘86 dog show. Currently, Gwayne is a journeyman carpenter, but he is looking forward to the day that he can hang up his carpenter’s belt and focus on his work.

Gwayne built his home himself, and has one room that’s reserved strictly for art. He created that studio for himself so that he can create his pieces in a space that is calm and completely quiet. He enjoys being by himself in total silence when he is working on his art.

The late Haida artist Bill Reid is Gwayne’s biggest influence. Gwayne had the opportunity to work with Bill Reid in his studio on Granville Island a year before Bill passes away.

Gwayne considers his Canada Geese picture to be one of his biggest pieces because of the attention to detail and form line.

Gwayne PointCoast Salish

Artist StatementI’m inspired by the fact that I can

actually do artwork and also that the art looks really nice when it’s completed.

I get my ideas from the animals that I’ve come into contact with while living in the Interior. I’m a hunter and trapper so I’ve seen most of the animals on my hunting and trapping trips.

I start by drawing a basic outline and from there, I can go through a dozen drafts until I reach the final product.

My interest in art was sparked from a piece at a university in Vancouver called The Clam People, based on the Haida legend of the Raven and the Clam. I enjoy Northwest Coast style work.

My accomplishments include meeting Bill Reid, and getting my first ribbons for my first pieces in art shows.

To draw something like my Canada Geese picture, you need a steady hand. No drugs or alcohol because you won’t be able to have a smooth flowing hand.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.9167Mediums: AcrylicsStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsExhibit History: Merritt Art GalleryArt Education: Self-taught

Title: BeaverPrice: $300Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 12” x 16”Description: Created to be carved at the bottom of the main entrance in a home to watch whoever enters the house.

Title: Canada Geese Flying SouthPrice: $300Medium: Acrylic Paint.Dimensions: 22” x 30”Description: Many Geese flying in a ‘V’ formation.

Title: OtterPrice: $300Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 22” x 30”Description: Created as a drum design.

Title: OwlsPrice: $300Medium: Acrylic PaintDimensions: 22” x 30”Description: Created as a drum design. Designed as a family portrait. Owls are created based on the size of individual families.


Jim was born in 1961 at Whitehorse, Yukon among the Southern Lakes region. Jim’s First Nations are Tlingit on his mom’s side, Tutchone on his dad’s side, and Kwanlin Dun. His late Tlingit grandmother used to tell stories about the adventures of Raven and these stories continue to inspire his art.

Jim began doing art when he was about 4 years old after his mother’s brother showed him how to draw with pencil and paper. Jim started carving when he was about 15, when he had an art class in school. The instructor was (soon to be famous painter) Ted Harrison and he introduced Jim to carving soapstone and red cedar.

In the following years Jim gradually started to learn to carve various objects such as plaques. Eventually he learned to carve masks, rattles, and totem poles.

Jim ShortyTlingit/Tutchone/Kwanlin Dun

Artist StatementArt has given Jim a real purpose and

the more he learns, the better he likes it. His favourite activity is to create designs based on stories.

In the future, he would like to unite traditional art with technology. Jim feels the Sundog Carving Program is one of the best things which has come his way in recent years.

Although it is difficult to decide, Jim feels his favourite carver was the late Bill Reid. Jim worked on a totem pole with an apprentice of Reid’s.

They carved a Haida pole on Granville Island. Jim’s favourite stories are the cycle of Raven stories including the stories of how Raven stole daylight and when Raven lost his beak.

Jim’s grandmother named him Jesqu which refers to the one who trapped Raven’s beak. When Jim was about 4 years old, he used lard bread to trap a Raven in a box. He feels this is what reminded his grandmother of the story.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.378.1883Email: [email protected]: CarvingStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Crow Steals SunlightPrice: SOLD for $1,075Medium: Acrylic, Basswood and Olive OilDimensions: 19” x 29” x 2”Description: Carved relief panel

Title: Pour Un Grand CoeurPrice: DonatedMedium: Birch and Olive OilDimensions: 7”Description: Carved portrait mask

Title: Wolf and Crow Hunt TogetherPrice: SOLD for $1,075Medium: Acrylic, Basswood, and Olive OilDimensions: 19” x 29” x 2”Description: Carved relief panel

Title: SharkPrice: $499Medium: Acrylic, Cyprus Wood, and Olive OilDimensions: 24” x 3”Description: Carved relief paddle ma-quette


Muriel Rose McArthur, originally from Saskatchewan, began her journey as an artist at 11 years old with her mother and grandparents as her teachers. She does a wide range of traditional crafts such as bead work, regalia, hand drums, moccasins and teepees.

Rose’s main focus is teaching. Her traditional name translates to Holy Yellow Bird Woman. She was given her name by her grandfather who told her it symbolized her need to always watch over children because the Yellow Bird Woman is a female golden eagle that watches over young people. Rose works with the school district and travels from school to school teaching First Nations culture and traditions.

Rose looks to her elders to provide knowledge into the way things were done traditionally. She would like to do is thank all the elders that have come into her life, from Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia, for teaching her and being her support and foundation.

Muriel Rose McArthurNakota Sioux

Artist StatementWhen I begin a new beading project,

the first thing I do when I pick up my beadwork is I smudge everything.

When I buy a piece of material, I place it over a chair and sit back to look at it, and I tell myself “Okay, now there’s a piece of material, so let’s beautify it. I ask myself, “How is that going to match the person.”

There’s a lot of protocol involved when you get someone to make you an outfit. A lot of people don’t understand that because they didn’t know that. These are the teachings from way back when I was a child.

When you wear an outfit it becomes part of your life. When you dance in your outfit, you have to make that outfit dance, if it doesn’t dance for you then it’s just another outfit.

I was born into my culture. My parents were residential school people, but they held onto their knowledge and their teachings.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.587.6511Email: [email protected]: Beadwork, Drums, RegaliaStyle: TraditionalCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Taught by mother

Title: Men’s Breast PlatePrice: $375Medium: Bone Beads, LeatherDimensions: 3’Description: Artisan creates breast plates of various sizes for men and women for use in dancing.

Title: Eagle DrumPrice: $85Medium: Elk HideDimensions: 10”Description: Eagle represents all the people.

Title: Beaded Jewellery setPrice: $450Medium: Cut Beads, Heavy Nylon threadDimensions: Various sizesDescription: Artisan creates various pieces of jewellery in many colours, shapes and sizes.

Title: Ribbon ShirtPrice: $175Medium: Poly-cottonDimensions: Various sizes availableDescription: Artisan creates custom shirts of various sizes for men and women to use in ceremonies or dancing.


Calvin is a self-taught artist of Cree descent. He began pursuing his interest in oil painting over 20 years ago, focusing on landscapes and developing his technique. A few years later, Calvin was introduced to acrylic paint and found an interest in native art.

Since then, Calvin began experimenting with a wide variety of art forms, including ink, pencil, charcoal, and pastels, which eventually led him to carving and beading.

For the past 10 years, Calvin has primarily worked on hand-drawn logos for various organizations. Calvin’s art can be seen in galleries such as the Bear Claw Gallery in Edmonton, as well as promotional material for Health Canada, raising awareness for SIDS.

Calvin moved to BC in the summer of 2002. It was at that time that he met his wife, Denise Billy. Calvin says his wife was a big inspiration for him in times where he couldn’t focus on artwork.

Calvin ShirtCree

Artist StatementI try not to confine myself with one

particular style. I explore new mediums, such as feather and quill work, fish scale art, and moose and caribou hair tufting.

I can remember drawing and painting in preschool, but I didn’t get serious about art until I was 15 years old. It wasn’t until a few years later that I became interested in native art.

I enjoy acrylic painting and ink drawing. I find myself more drawn to painting, but my ink drawings are more popular, so I like to focus on both.

I’m motivated to continue with my art by being a positive role model to the young people that I meet. Some of them show an interest in drawing and ask me how I do certain things. That’s where some of my inspiration comes from.

I would probably consider my dad as my greatest influence. Before he passed away, he drew cartoon characters. I don’t remember a lot of them, but I remember wanting to draw like him.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.679.3818Email: [email protected]: Painting, DrawingStyle: Traditional & ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Dance Honouring the EldersPrice: Unfinished, Contact ArtisanMedium: AcrylicDimensions: 16” x 20”

Title: Loon SpiritPrice: $100Medium: Pencil & InkDimensions: 8” x 10”

Title: Dancer’s PrayerPrice: Unfinished, Contact ArtisanMedium: AcrylicDimensions: 16” x 20”

Title: Flight of the Spirit WhalePrice: $400Medium: Canvas, Acrylic Paint, Split Hide, Sinew, Eagle feathers, Crow beads, carved Willow frameDimensions: 11.5” x 19”


Nadine Spence sees clothing as an art form. When she was a little girl she created wearable art for her dolls. She continues to create to this day, only now it’s on a larger scale. Nadine is passionate about her creations, her heritage and the earth. Her designs are strongly influenced by her upbringing in the culture of the Nlakapamux people.

Nadine started her business, RevEvo, in 2005 out of beautiful Kelowna, BC. Rev Evo is proud to be able to produce such extraordinary works of art and clothing. Nadine’s strong focus on environmentally-friendly practices have filtered into all aspects of the business. Every effort has been made to ensure that all the garments made, and all the in-store practices are safe for the environment. RevEvo’s founding philosophy is that the earth is a gift and they honor that gift by making the environment our home for generations to come.

Nadine SpenceThompson-Shuswap

Artist StatementI am inspired by colour, texture, nature,

beauty, how other garments fit people. I keep a book with me at all times so I can write down any idea that inspires me at any given moment.

The one thing I try to do when working on new pieces is to finish everything I start, I also try to not be afraid or not let my gift go to waste.

Trying to prove people wrong has helped propel me to where I am today.

Rev Evo is an eco-friendly business that designs clothing and accessories.

Rev Evo is committed to innovative and modern fashion design relying on natural fabrics and dyes to contribute to the reversal of the rapidly advancing destruction of our planet. Our clothes can be worn with style and pride.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.491.1308Email: [email protected]: www.revevo.comMediums: Eco-friendly ClothingStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught/UCFCExhibit History: Apparel BCAwards: Most CreativeAffiliations: Apparel BC

Title: Feather JacketPrice: $450Medium: Hemp/SilkSize: 4-16 custom sizing availableDescription: Semi-fitted feather appli-quéd jacket. The jacket falls to the hip has a notched collar with CF shell button closures, fully lined shoulder pages

Title: Union of Mother FrogsPrice: $115Medium: HempDimensions: 10” x 17”Description: 100% hemp twill, fully lined with hemp muslin, front flap contains hidden pockets. Pockets contained in-side, center front button closure.

Title: Women’s Evening DressesPrice: Contact Artisan for detailsMedium: Silk, Hemp, Natural dyesSizes: Various sizes available.Description: Please contact artisan for detailed descriptions of these beautifully unique dresses

Title: Sun, Butterfly, Feather BlousePrice: $1200Medium: Hemp/SilkDimensions: Contact ArtisanDescription: Hemp/Silk bodice with empire waistline with silk bias draping falling from center front bustline to hem. Mandarin collar. Fully-lined.


James has spent the past 10 years doing glass etchings as a hobby. Recently he has also been working on wood carving, using Western Red Cedar and Mountain Pine Beetle wood.

James considers himself an art collector, as he enjoys the work of many artists and draws ideas from them. James enjoys glass etchings because the majority of pieces he has seen have been beautiful and made him want them in his own home. His plans for his home in the future are glass etchings on the stairways, as well as the main doors.

James considers many local artists as influences on his work. Leslie Hampton and Charles Brown are just two of the artists that James looks to for inspiration or to admire their work. He also spends time with other artists to learn about their different mediums and styles.

James FountainNlaka’pamux

Artist StatementWhen I was growing up, I was always

told that I should be an artist. People always seemed pretty interested in the work that I have done.

For the most part, I’ve managed to keep my artwork as a hobby. I’m hoping in the future, to spend some more time on pursuing my art. Lately I’ve been getting into wood carving and learning new techniques using wood.

I have used the Nlaka’pamux name for an animal if it’s depicted in the etching. I’m very careful about certain things from different nations. I always get permission from an artist to use their style. It’s not something I would ever do without permission.

I enjoy glass etching the most. People bring me photos or pictures and I’m able to put that image into an etching. Most of the work I’ve done so far has been on a commission basis. I get a lot of satisfaction from the responses I get from people seeing my work.

Artist InfoPhone: 250.315.2203Email: [email protected]: Glass Etching, CarvingStyle: ContemporaryCommissions: I accept commissionsArt Education: Self-taught

Title: Cougar in TreePrice: Sold for $500Medium: GlassDimensions: 18” x 24”Description: One of A Kind glass etching by commission.

Title: Dream HunterPrice: $95Medium: Western Red CedarDimensions: 8.5”Description: Wood carving

Title: Eagle/MaskPrice: $500Medium: GlassDimensions: 23” x 23”Description: Glass etching

Title: CD Gift BoxPrice: $35 Medium: Blue Stain PineDimensions: 6.5” x 12”Description: Carved wood box made from Mountain Pine Beetle wood, unique for it’s blue stain appearance. Box comes empty.


Aggie JohnNation

Artist Statement

Artist InfoPhone: Email:Mediums:Style:Commissions: Art Education:

Title: Price: Medium: Dimensions: Description:




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