Large and stunning First Nations Dolphin wall plaque is decorated with traditional red and black colors. Measures 28 X 10 inches, priced at $1250.

Indigenous peoples living near the oceans, in coastal cultures all over the world, have many stories about dolphins and porpoises helping people by carrying them to shore in rough waters, or driving away menacing sharks.

The artist is a member of the Kwakiutl (Kwakwaka’wakw) First Nation with part of her heritage connecting to the Coast Salish. She was born in Nanaimo, a small fishing town on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. She started carving under the guidance of her father, a master carver.

With over 20 years’ experience, she has now developed her own style, clearly showing the “female touch” and absolutely fantastic craftsmanship. She shows her love for the art of carving through her detailing and her clean and deep cuts. Strong lines and truly gorgeous expressions in her pieces of art.

She uses her own interpretations of vibrant and absolutely stunning designs from both cultures, the Kwakiutl as well as the Coast Salish.

She has become one of the best known female artists from the Northwest coast and is highly sought after by collectors world wide.

Restoring their ties to their land, culture and rights, the Kwakwaka’wakw have undertaken much in bringing back their customs, beliefs and language.

In contrast to most non-native societies, wealth and status were not determined by how much you had, but by how much you had to give away. This act of giving away your wealth was one of the main acts in a potlatch.

Potlatches occur more frequently now as families reconnect to their birthright, and the community uses language programs, classes and social events to restore the language.