The Light Keeper Ceramic Mug by Adam Lewis

Statement of Respect and Authenticity

We believe that Indigenous artists should be treated fairly and with respect. Authenticity of art, design, and culture is the foundation of our mission of building everyday connection to Indigenous cultures.

Native Northwest products are guided by the following five principles:

• 100% of the art featured on every Native Northwest product is designed by Indigenous artists

• All artists have provided consent and contractual permission for their art to be featured on Native Northwest products

• Artist names are acknowledged on all product packaging

• Cultural traditions are honoured by acknowledging cultural affiliation on product packaging

• Artists are paid in fees and royalties

 Adam Lewis was born in 1982, and raised in the Cape Mudge Village (We Wai Kai) located on Quadra Island, BC. Being a member of the We Wai Kai Nation makes Adam Ligwilda’xw, which is the three southern most Kwakwaka’wakw Nations. “Ligwilda’xw” translates to “seaworm/unkillable thing”.

Growing up in Cape Mudge (We Wai Kai) Adam was enamoured by the museum directly across from his childhood home, spending hours admiring art (and playing hide and seek inside the 3 story building with other kids). Although Adam was surrounded by beautiful formline Indigenous art, his creativity led him to street art. Painting murals for over 25 years with aerosol paint, Adam developed his freehand skill set, unique colour combinations, and composition, while always dreaming of creating formline artworks.

In late 2021, Adam completely shifted focus towards learning his traditional art forms. Mainly self-taught, Adam continues his studies and creative journey, creating contemporary Kwakwaka’wakw art pieces. Art has been a true love and deep passion for Adam. Blessed to create daily, Adam foresees creating art as a lifelong journey.