Artist Statement

"I started doing First Nations art in my early twenties in an effort to help me understand where I was from. It has connected me to the Kaska-Tlingit cultures. The more I explore the art, the more I understand that it is a major component of our social customs and values.

I am amazed by the stories that have survived for so many generations. The stories have significant narratives that we can all learn from - whether you are Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal.

The art has been a thread that has kept me in touch with my heritage. I am inspired by the old stories and often paint what comes to mind when I hear them.

I also paint to celebrate moments in my own life.

Whatever the inspiration, I paint to share ideas and stories, and to pass these on to the generations to come."

Click on the images to view larger versions and read the stories that inspired the art...