Indigenous art at Paul Myers Tower at Lions Gate Hospital

This beautiful creation represents the Indigenous natives as a community togetherness.
Orange represents the Squamish Nation as the Cedar people.
Blue is the sky.
Four directions are the people on earth, red, yellow, black, white.
Black, eye of the creator watching over the people and keeping one and all safe.
White represents the people coming together and living in a respectful manner.
The earth colors below represent earth, water.
The trim on the sides again, eye of the creator, keeping us safe.

Living in an honest, respectful manner.

Hello, respectful humans. Mohieqxweth is my ancestral name. Eileen Jacobs, is my English name. I am Squamish Nation Native, born and raised in Squamish Valley, Cheekye, Cheakamus, I. R. #11, I have 5 sisters and 1 brothers still in my life. I am blessed with 4 children, 8 grandchildren. I love with all my heart. I am now 66 years young, especially on a good day and a better day is when I feel 40, I believe in my heart and soul that respect, trust, love, happiness and good health and loving my native traditions and culture, are so very important in my life. I am fortunate to be alive to continue learning our teachings that were taken from our people. Weaving is what I hold near and dear to my heart and soul and a teaching that I choose to continue and share. My message is keeping respect, honesty, happiness and good health. When you walk with your true self you will be a respectful person To share what I’ve learned is part of my teachings and like to share what I’ve learned, about our ancestors' teachings. My message to one and all is to be true to you and you will walk that talk with respect. With respect, Mohieqxweth / Eileen Jacobs

The Eagle Transformation Mask is hand carved from old growth red cedar by Squamish Nation Artist – Sina̓mḵin Jody Broomfield.

The significance of this Eagle Transforming mask, relates to oneself, growing, maturing into the person you know you are inside and out. Love and carry yourself in the best way possible.

Heritage: Sḵwx̱wú7mesh - Squamish, Coast Salish.

Sina̓mḵin (Jody) is 3-time Public Art Award of Excellence and Heritage Award Recipient. He is proud artist of the Squamish Nation, Coast Salish Peoples and has been on his creative journey since 1999. He enjoys working with the mediums: wood, etched glass, etched stone works, fabricated metal sculptures, jewelry gold & silver painting and prints.

Jody concentrates in the following artist creations such as, hand carved masks, wall panels, carved entry doors and house posts & welcome figures. Jody also specializes in graphic designing with the program Adobe Illustrator.

Collaborated and/or commissioned art projects with:

• City of West Vancouver
• City of Coquitlam
• City of North Vancouver
• City of Port Moody
• Resort of Whistler
• Vancouver City Hall
• Simon Fraser University
• Royal Canadian Mint
• Lululemon Store
• La Maison Simons Department Store
• Tom Lee Music
• Park Royal Mall
• BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities
• Four Host First Nations / Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics

Jody has collaborated work with the Royal Canadian Mint with 4 other limited-edition gold and silver coins.

Jody Broomfield – Recognitions & Public Art Awards:

2009, Jody received the Krause Publications – Coin of the Year Award for his design of “Summer Moon Mask” in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mint. This limited-edition of 1200 collectable coins, won for the Most Artistic Coin Award category.

2009, Jody was presented the Public Art Award of Excellence by Mayor Darrell Mussatto, City of North Vancouver for the Salmon House Post & Return of the Spawning Salmon Sculptures, Touchstone Development, commissioned by Ledingham & McAllister.

2013, Jody was presented a second Public Art Award of Excellence by Mayor Darrell Mussatto, City of North Vancouver for “Salmon for Wendell” Mackay Creek Bridge, North Vancouver.

2021, Jody was presented the Heritage Award from the District of North Vancouver for recognizing special projects & accomplishments in the field of Heritage Conservation regarding the hand carved red cedar, Welcome Figure for the L’École Argyle Secondary, North Vancouver, BC.

Website: www.salishart.com 
Instagram: @salishart

This panel depicts an Eagle and Eagle feather, that is a representation of guidance, leadership and perseverance. 

Jordan Gallie is a member of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Jordan's interest in becoming an artist began at age nine, after seeing First Nations artwork displayed at the Museum of Anthropology.

Jordan has experience in large-scale projects, logo design, murals, jewelry design, and many other mediums.

Jordan has completed the Fine Arts Program at Native Education College, Animation & Graphic Design Program at Capilano University, and Project Management at TWN Skills Centre.

Jordan Gallie is a member of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Jordan's interest in becoming an artist began at age nine, after seeing First Nations artwork displayed at the Museum of Anthropology.

Jordan has experience in large-scale projects, logo design, murals, jewelry design, and many other mediums.

Jordan has completed the Fine Arts Program at Native Education College, Animation & Graphic Design Program at Capilano University, and Project Management at TWN Skills Centre.

This carving is an abstract representation of the Salmon. In our traditional art this character can be presented in, and along with, many different images, including Eagles, Killer Whales, Bears, Wolves, and even humans. This is due to the importance of Salmon to all living things in our homelands. It is an animal that connects us and is so very important for all of our survival. In essence, it represents the spirit and life that exists in everything.

Heritage – Kwakwaka’wakw/Squamish

Klatle-bhi (pronounced “Cloth-Bay”) was born in North Vancouver, British Columbia in 1966. He began his life as an artist studying the works of his ancestors featured in museums and galleries. He spent many hours with artists Beau Dick, Wayne Alfred, Wade Baker and Rick Harry, absorbing their understanding and knowledge of native culture. His uncle, T. Richard Baker, also shared with Klatlebhi the knowledge he gained over a period of many years working with renowned Haida artists Bill Reid, Robert Davidson and Jim Hart.

In his carving, which has evolved over the years, Klatle-bhi is committed to the spiritual and cultural expression of his ancestors. Many of his carvings express his own personal and spiritual journey through life. Klatle-bhi has developed a style of carving which is unique and distinctive. It is his goal to achieve the highest level of craftsmanship and artistry that this cultural medium will allow. He believes that his journey will always continue. He has recently renewed his interest in creating prints and working more in glass, metal and other materials. 

Aside from his artwork, Klatle-bhi aspires to maintain the languages, dances and songs of his ancestors. Klatle-bhi believes both art and culture meet on a journey into the history of his people. Klatle-bhi has taken on several apprentices to share the knowledge and experiences passed down to him with the next generaHon of up and coming artists. 

In 2008, Klatle-bhi was commissioned by Petro-Canada to carve a 22-foot totem pole for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics games as part of their national sponsorship of the games. The legacy sea-to-sky totem pole stood at the Four Host First Nations Pavilion at Queen Elizabeth Theatre during the winter games. After the Olympics, the totem pole found a permanent home in the atrium of Petro-Canada’s (now Suncor Energy) Calgary headquarters. A totem measuring 24’ was carved by Klatle-bhi in 2022 and now stands as the centrepiece of the Heath Bay community on Guilford Island (Gway’usdums) in the Broughton Archipelago. This epic totem is representative of his family and depicts Eagle, Whale, Seal, Sistult and the Faces of his people.

Klatle-bhi’s artwork can be found in several public museums, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City and the Burke Memorial Museum of Natural History in Seattle. In addition Klatle-bhi has created countless private commissions, both large and small, for corporate offices and private collectors around the world. 

In 2023 Klatle-bhi was recognized by the BC Achievement Foundation with the prestigious Polygon Award for First Nations Art.

Website: https://klatle-bhi.com/

Chief Xusamda'as Tsamkwa'gatl - Kwakwee Baker is an internationally recognized Multi-Media Designer. Specializing in drawing and painting, graphic design, film production, education and performance in acting and stage. He hails from the Squamish, Musgamagw Dzawada'Nuik, Namgis, Kwaguilth Nations, and resides in Vancouver. He feels fortunate to have been brought up with the Potlatch Traditions and Ceremonies, with mentoring and apprenticeship he received from his extended families. With a unique eye for picture and design, he is continually inspired to push the boundaries, and is consistently creating new and innovative platforms to challenging what we know as contemporary North West Coast “Native” Art.   

The carved laminated red cedar panel helps tell the story of the Great Flood, which recalls the ancient story of how the Skwxwu7mesh Uxwumixw (Squamish people) survived a catastrophe. It depicts eagle, salmon, the people, the canoe and Nch'ḵay̓ (known as Mount Garibaldi to settlers), revealing the story of sp’ukw’as (eagle), sent by the ininyaxa7n (Creator, Thunderbird), to gather salmon to help the Skwxwu7mesh people survive the flood by dropping the fish into their canoes.

On the carved panel, you will see eagle is the main element. It’s inlaid abalone shell eyes represent the power of the water. The orb behind the eagle represents the sun and moon. On the wings of the eagle represent the female (on left) and the male (on right), which stands for the balance needed in all things.  

The Coast Salish eye designs (circle and trigon) depicted on the shoulder of the eagle represents the eyes of the Creator watching over us. Our sacred teachings remind us that we are all being watched by the community, the ancestors, the Creator, our family, our friends and ourselves. We are therefore reminded to carry ourselves in the best way possible.

On the panel’s bottom, there is a carving of a traditional ocean-going canoe with Nch’kay’ in the background. It was the apex of this mountain where the rafted canoes were anchored to take refuge. 

This original panel was carved to be used as a door and is now hung on display in the Lions Gate Hospital celebrating the resilience of how the Skwxwu7mesh people survived the Great Flood.

Xwalacktun (born Rick Harry) is a highly acclaimed Squamish Nation artist whose dynamic sculptural works and designs are recognized internationally. Some significant awards he has received are:

• BC Achievement First Nations Art Award - Artist of Distinction (2023)
• Emily Carr University Honorary Doctorate (2022)
• West Vancouver Mayor Award for Arts and Culture (2022)
• BC Achievement First Nations Art Award (2016)
• Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013)
• Order of British Columbia (2012)
• FANS honour award from the North Shore Arts Council (2005)
• 125 Anniversary Confederation of Canada Medal (1992)

Born and raised in Squamish, BC, Xwalacktun carries with him the rich ancestries of the Indigenous backgrounds of his father’s (Skwxwu7mesh Nation) and mother’s (‘Namgis Nation) Coast Salish clans. He is connected to the canoe culture and has carved a 30 foot dugout red cedar canoe and various paddles, and been on many ocean journeys including “Qatuwas” (1993) which was critical to the revival of the ocean going society after being dormant for 80 years.

Xwalacktun’s beautiful and unique artwork is widely recognizable and found worldwide. Some of his notable cedar wood carved pieces include:

• Lions Gate Hospital carved door panel - this art was used to inspire emerging artists in creating their own door panels (Emily Carr University Course)
• St. Paul’s Hospital 20 foot pole (to be installed in 2026)
• Emily Carr University’s two 12 foot salmon house posts
• BC Hydro’s carved double doors
• Gordon Smith Gallery 10 foot x 8 foot double doors
• First Peoples House University of Victoria carved double doors
• Vancouver General Hospital 15 foot internally lit house post
• Vancouver School Board’s 45 foot Truth and Reconciliation pole (collaboration with son James Harry)
• 2010 Winter Olympics bid book box and various Indigenous merchandising 

Community connection, growth and advocating for the environment are central themes in Xwalacktun’s work. He focuses on how the ancient stories relate to his own life allowing him to continually learn, teach, mentor and pay it forward to others.

My name is Jacob George, my ancestral name is Kiapalanexw. I am səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and Hawaiian, living on my ancestral lands known commonly as the Burrard Inlet. I am a self-taught wood carver who is passionate about continuing the traditional ways of my Coast Salish ancestors, connecting to my culture and honouring my late father through the healing practice of art and cultural practices. From a young age, I have been passionate about the art of carving. It all began when I was just ten years old, watching my uncle Mark George  skillfully carve a totem pole. The intricate details and the way he transformed a simple piece of wood into a stunning work of art captivated my young mind.

From the moment, I knew I wanted to become a carver myself, The smell of cedar wood, The tools in my hands, and the creative process all fascinated me. Carving has a form of expression and connection to my culture. It allows me to tell stories, preserve our traditions and honor our ancestors.

With each piece of art I create, I hold a special connection to the creator. Before I began working on my new project, I take a moment to pray and seek guidance and knowledge.

Carving has become more than just a hobby or a skill to me. It is a way of life, journey of self-discovery, and connection to my community. I am honored to be able to contribute to the preservation and revival of our cultural heritage through my artwork. It is my hope that with each piece I create, I inspire others to appreciate and celebrate the rich history and tradition of our people.

My name is Jacob George, my ancestral name is Kiapalanexw. I am səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and Hawaiian, living on my ancestral lands known commonly as the Burrard Inlet. I am a self-taught wood carver who is passionate about continuing the traditional ways of my Coast Salish ancestors, connecting to my culture and honouring my late father through the healing practice of art and cultural practices. From a young age, I have been passionate about the art of carving. It all began when I was just ten years old, watching my uncle Mark George  skillfully carve a totem pole. The intricate details and the way he transformed a simple piece of wood into a stunning work of art captivated my young mind.

From the moment, I knew I wanted to become a carver myself, The smell of cedar wood, The tools in my hands, and the creative process all fascinated me. Carving has a form of expression and connection to my culture. It allows me to tell stories, preserve our traditions and honor our ancestors.

With each piece of art I create, I hold a special connection to the creator. Before I began working on my new project, I take a moment to pray and seek guidance and knowledge.

Carving has become more than just a hobby or a skill to me. It is a way of life, journey of self-discovery, and connection to my community. I am honored to be able to contribute to the preservation and revival of our cultural heritage through my artwork. It is my hope that with each piece I create, I inspire others to appreciate and celebrate the rich history and tradition of our people.

My name is Jacob George, my ancestral name is Kiapalanexw. I am səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and Hawaiian, living on my ancestral lands known commonly as the Burrard Inlet. I am a self-taught wood carver who is passionate about continuing the traditional ways of my Coast Salish ancestors, connecting to my culture and honouring my late father through the healing practice of art and cultural practices. From a young age, I have been passionate about the art of carving. It all began when I was just ten years old, watching my uncle Mark George  skillfully carve a totem pole. The intricate details and the way he transformed a simple piece of wood into a stunning work of art captivated my young mind.

From the moment, I knew I wanted to become a carver myself, The smell of cedar wood, The tools in my hands, and the creative process all fascinated me. Carving has a form of expression and connection to my culture. It allows me to tell stories, preserve our traditions and honor our ancestors.

With each piece of art I create, I hold a special connection to the creator. Before I began working on my new project, I take a moment to pray and seek guidance and knowledge.

Carving has become more than just a hobby or a skill to me. It is a way of life, journey of self-discovery, and connection to my community. I am honored to be able to contribute to the preservation and revival of our cultural heritage through my artwork. It is my hope that with each piece I create, I inspire others to appreciate and celebrate the rich history and tradition of our people.

Ocean Hyland/ shḵwen̓/ ts;simtelot

Ocean Hyland is an artist who works in the realms of painting and digital design. Along with her practices she enjoys participating in language revitalization of coast Salish languages.. Ocean currently lives in Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. 

As a young woman, Ocean received the ancestral name ts;simtelot which was shared with her by her Mother. This name has been passed down through her family on her Cheam side. On her matrilineal side she is Tsleil Waututh, Squamish, Cheam, Hawaiian, and Chinese. Through her father she is Scottish and Irish. The richness and diversity of her cultural heritage is what inspires Ocean in her many art practices. 

Ocean has studied at both Native education college specializing in NWC jewelry arts, and at Simon Fraser University focusing on the sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim, building up her proficiency in one of her mother tongues. She has also gained valuable knowledge apprenticing with creators `Zachary George and Aaron Nelson Moody. 

Website: https://www.salishshkwen.com/

Ocean Hyland/ shḵwen̓/ ts;simtelot

Ocean Hyland is an artist who works in the realms of painting and digital design. Along with her practices she enjoys participating in language revitalization of coast Salish languages.. Ocean currently lives in Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. 

As a young woman, Ocean received the ancestral name ts;simtelot which was shared with her by her Mother. This name has been passed down through her family on her Cheam side. On her matrilineal side she is Tsleil Waututh, Squamish, Cheam, Hawaiian, and Chinese. Through her father she is Scottish and Irish. The richness and diversity of her cultural heritage is what inspires Ocean in her many art practices. 

Ocean has studied at both Native education college specializing in NWC jewelry arts, and at Simon Fraser University focusing on the sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim, building up her proficiency in one of her mother tongues. She has also gained valuable knowledge apprenticing with creators `Zachary George and Aaron Nelson Moody. 

Website: https://www.salishshkwen.com/

Ocean Hyland/ shḵwen̓/ ts;simtelot

Ocean Hyland is an artist who works in the realms of painting and digital design. Along with her practices she enjoys participating in language revitalization of coast Salish languages.. Ocean currently lives in Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. 

As a young woman, Ocean received the ancestral name ts;simtelot which was shared with her by her Mother. This name has been passed down through her family on her Cheam side. On her matrilineal side she is Tsleil Waututh, Squamish, Cheam, Hawaiian, and Chinese. Through her father she is Scottish and Irish. The richness and diversity of her cultural heritage is what inspires Ocean in her many art practices. 

Ocean has studied at both Native education college specializing in NWC jewelry arts, and at Simon Fraser University focusing on the sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim, building up her proficiency in one of her mother tongues. She has also gained valuable knowledge apprenticing with creators `Zachary George and Aaron Nelson Moody. 

Website: https://www.salishshkwen.com/

Ocean Hyland/ shḵwen̓/ ts;simtelot

Ocean Hyland is an artist who works in the realms of painting and digital design. Along with her practices she enjoys participating in language revitalization of coast Salish languages.. Ocean currently lives in Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. 

As a young woman, Ocean received the ancestral name ts;simtelot which was shared with her by her Mother. This name has been passed down through her family on her Cheam side. On her matrilineal side she is Tsleil Waututh, Squamish, Cheam, Hawaiian, and Chinese. Through her father she is Scottish and Irish. The richness and diversity of her cultural heritage is what inspires Ocean in her many art practices. 

Ocean has studied at both Native education college specializing in NWC jewelry arts, and at Simon Fraser University focusing on the sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim, building up her proficiency in one of her mother tongues. She has also gained valuable knowledge apprenticing with creators `Zachary George and Aaron Nelson Moody. 

Website: https://www.salishshkwen.com/

Ocean Hyland/ shḵwen̓/ ts;simtelot

Ocean Hyland is an artist who works in the realms of painting and digital design. Along with her practices she enjoys participating in language revitalization of coast Salish languages.. Ocean currently lives in Qualicum Bay on Vancouver Island. 

As a young woman, Ocean received the ancestral name ts;simtelot which was shared with her by her Mother. This name has been passed down through her family on her Cheam side. On her matrilineal side she is Tsleil Waututh, Squamish, Cheam, Hawaiian, and Chinese. Through her father she is Scottish and Irish. The richness and diversity of her cultural heritage is what inspires Ocean in her many art practices. 

Ocean has studied at both Native education college specializing in NWC jewelry arts, and at Simon Fraser University focusing on the sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim, building up her proficiency in one of her mother tongues. She has also gained valuable knowledge apprenticing with creators `Zachary George and Aaron Nelson Moody. 

Website: https://www.salishshkwen.com/

The sea kingdoms rich powers runs deep within,
A mother’s bond guiding her child through the hunt of survival.

TsuKalton Jonas Jones comes from the village of Átsnach (Tsleil-Waututh) with strong bloodlines running from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) as well. He is grateful for teachers such as Ses Siyam (Ray Natraoro), who taught him to indulge within the Coast Salish laws of art, a system that is passed down from master carver to apprentice.

He is honoured to be practicing this craft, as this foundation of art and way of life has been running through his blood for thousands of years. To live and breathe a little piece of the old people our swa7am (ancestors) is truly a beautiful thing.

We are surrounded by the ancestors
and the prayers of the people stay here forever.
We are here to hold each other up in this life,
and to care for the beautiful land we live on.
The geometric shapes represent the generations of our people,
and the colours give medicine to us, the medicine is for everyone.

Skwetsimeltxw Willard ‘Buddy’ Joseph and Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George have taught weaving across Salish-speaking territories, connecting hundreds of students to the teachings of their ancestors. These weavings are not simply reproductions of the past but are a reclaiming of the inheritance from Elders, integrated with present day techniques, materials, and teachings. Chief Janice George reflects, “We are taught spiritual protection is part of what we are wearing, and we feel the love that is put into each hand movement it takes to make a robe".

This Squamish Welcome Figure that stands before you at the entrance of the Paul Myers Tower offers a sign of peace, love and prosperity to who may encounter its positive energy.

The two Squamish artists (Klatle-bhi and Sinámḵin) who collaborated on this art project give thanks to the previous life of the great old growth red cedar log. The artists bestowed a new life of an artistic creation, sculpting the beautiful wood into a traditional Salish Welcome Figure.

In the old times, these figures were placed as village markers and would let approaching visiting guests know that it was okay to approach the shores in their canoes and no harm would come to them. When the guests would arrive, it was and still is custom protocol to ask for permission to come ashore from the lead si’y’am (chief of the family).

We as the artists place this Welcome Figure here in a good way at this grand entry for all to enjoy. And like the Welcome Figure, we raise our hands up to you! Which is a traditional Salish hand gesture, offering a sign of peace, gratitude and welcoming to the Paul Myers Tower.

May it uplift your heart, mind and spirit in a positive way.

Collaboration by: Squamish Nation Artists Sinámḵin (Jody Broomfield) and Klatle-bhi

Meet Jody Broomfield

Heritage: Sḵwx̱wú7mesh - Squamish, Coast Salish.

Sina̓mḵin (Jody) is 3-time Public Art Award of Excellence and Heritage Award Recipient. He is proud artist of the Squamish Nation, Coast Salish Peoples and has been on his creative journey since 1999. He enjoys working with the mediums: wood, etched glass, etched stone works, fabricated metal sculptures, jewelry gold & silver painting and prints.

Jody concentrates in the following artist creations such as, hand carved masks, wall panels, carved entry doors and house posts & welcome figures. Jody also specializes in graphic designing with the program Adobe Illustrator.

Collaborated and/or commissioned art projects with:

• City of West Vancouver
• City of Coquitlam
• City of North Vancouver
• City of Port Moody
• Resort of Whistler
• Vancouver City Hall
• Simon Fraser University
• Royal Canadian Mint
• Lululemon Store
• La Maison Simons Department Store
• Tom Lee Music
• Park Royal Mall
• BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities
• Four Host First Nations / Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics

Jody has collaborated work with the Royal Canadian Mint with 4 other limited-edition gold and silver coins.

Jody Broomfield – Recognitions & Public Art Awards:

2009, Jody received the Krause Publications – Coin of the Year Award for his design of “Summer Moon Mask” in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mint. This limited-edition of 1200 collectable coins, won for the Most Artistic Coin Award category.

2009, Jody was presented the Public Art Award of Excellence by Mayor Darrell Mussatto, City of North Vancouver for the Salmon House Post & Return of the Spawning Salmon Sculptures, Touchstone Development, commissioned by Ledingham & McAllister.

2013, Jody was presented a second Public Art Award of Excellence by Mayor Darrell Mussatto, City of North Vancouver for “Salmon for Wendell” Mackay Creek Bridge, North Vancouver.

2021, Jody was presented the Heritage Award from the District of North Vancouver for recognizing special projects & accomplishments in the field of Heritage Conservation regarding the hand carved red cedar, Welcome Figure for the L’École Argyle Secondary, North Vancouver, BC.

Website: www.salishart.com 
Instagram: @salishart

Meet Klatle-bhi

Heritage – Kwakwaka’wakw/Squamish

Klatle-bhi (pronounced “Cloth-Bay”) was born in North Vancouver, British Columbia in 1966. He began his life as an artist studying the works of his ancestors featured in museums and galleries. He spent many hours with artists Beau Dick, Wayne Alfred, Wade Baker and Rick Harry, absorbing their understanding and knowledge of native culture. His uncle, T. Richard Baker, also shared with Klatle-bhi the knowledge he gained over a period of many years working with renowned Haida artists Bill Reid, Robert Davidson and Jim Hart.

In his carving, which has evolved over the years, Klatle-bhi is committed to the spiritual and cultural expression of his ancestors. Many of his carvings express his own personal and spiritual journey through life. Klatle-bhi has developed a style of carving which is unique and distinctive. It is his goal to achieve the highest level of craftsmanship and artistry that this cultural medium will allow. He believes that his journey will always continue. He has recently renewed his interest in creating prints and working more in glass, metal and other materials.

Aside from his artwork, Klatle-bhi aspires to maintain the languages, dances and songs of his ancestors. Klatle-bhi believes both art and culture meet on a journey into the history of his people. Klatle-bhi has taken on several apprentices to share the knowledge and experiences passed down to him with the next generation of up and coming artists.

In 2008, Klatle-bhi was commissioned by Petro-Canada to carve a 22-foot totem pole for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics games as part of their national sponsorship of the games. The legacy sea-to-sky totem pole stood at the Four Host First Nations Pavilion at Queen Elizabeth Theatre during the winter games. After the Olympics, the totem pole found a permanent home in the atrium of Petro-Canada’s (now Suncor Energy) Calgary headquarters.

A totem measuring 24’ was carved by Klatle-bhi in 2022 and now stands as the centrepiece of the Heath Bay community on Guilford Island (Gway’usdums) in the Broughton Archipelago. This epic totem is representative of his family and depicts Eagle, Whale, Seal, Sistult and the Faces of his people.

Klatle-bhi’s artwork can be found in several public museums, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City and the Burke Memorial Museum of Natural History in Seattle. In addition Klatle-bhi has created countless private commissions, both large and small, for corporate offices and private collectors around the world.

In 2023 Klatle-bhi was recognized by the BC Achievement Foundation with the prestigious Polygon Award for First Nations Art.

Website: https://klatle-bhi.com/
 

Wacaq was a profound leader of səlilwət, he resided within təmtəmíxʷtən (today called Belcarra).

Wacaq had a unique connection with the world around us, he was trained and gifted with certain strengths and abilities that allowed him to communicate with the natures of our world. Wacaq had an extraordinary gift to connect with marine life and communicate with our kin of the sea.

One day, Wacaq came across two young boys disobeying the laws our people, the laws of Mother Earth. The two young ones were throwing rocks at the spawning salmon. They were disrupting the salmon run and disrespecting the salmon peoples natural flow of life.

It was spawning season, and the salmon runs were thick. Elders said you could walk across the river on the backs of salmon and not dip a toe in the water.

Wacaq warned the boys, if they continued to disrespect the salmon kin, he would teach these two and the ones of the village a big lesson: that we live in harmony with each and every living creature, animal, and marine life.

The two boys disregarded what Wacaq had told them and continued to disrupt and harm the salmon. So, Wacaq asked the spawning salmon to leave the river.

In distress and disorder, the people pleaded with Wacaq for the salmon to come back.

Our people lived off the salmon, the salmon replenished our spirits and souls. Without the salmon our people would starve when winter comes. But Wacaq wanted to teach the two young boys that we live in harmony with each and everything around us, that we don’t abuse and destroy living beings and marine life. Wacaq wanted to make it known the salmon are our kin as well and deserve the peace to spawn and produce the life which give us strength and health.

In disarray, the two understood what they had to do, they grasped the message Wacaq had left for them. The next morning the two boys went into the river and pleaded with the waters. Wacaq saw the two boys, saw that the lesson had been learned, and took pity on them. Wacaq along with the two boys asked the salmon to return to the river and they did once again.

TsuKalton Jonas Jones comes from the village of Átsnach (Tsleil-Waututh) with strong bloodlines running from Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) as well. He is grateful for teachers such as Ses Siyam (Ray Natraoro), who taught him to indulge within the Coast Salish laws of art, a system that is passed down from master carver to apprentice.

He is honoured to be practicing this craft, as this foundation of art and way of life has been running through his blood for thousands of years. To live and breathe a little piece of the old people our swa7am (ancestors) is truly a beautiful thing.