Life moves quickly, and we sometimes need a reminder of what to focus on. Made from reclaimed wood, this little Totem Spirit is a unique touchstone designed to help you pay attention to what's important. Each piece is one-of-a-kind in colour and grain and is laser-etched with an inspiring word for inspiration and blessing.
Totem Spirit Owl (Wisdom) by Doug LaFortune
NATIVE NORTHWEST ART BY INDIGENOUS ARTISTS
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
-
Doug LaFortune is a highly respected Coast Salish artist and carver, born in 1953, who belongs to the Tsawout First Nation on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. His artistic career began after studying fine arts at Camosun College and, most influentially, apprenticing under the renowned Salish Master Carver Simon Charlie. This training helped him develop a unique and distinctive style in various mediums, including traditional carving of massive totem poles, masks, and figures, as well as painting and serigraphy. Committed to sharing his culture, his work often references traditional knowledge and animals of the Salish Sea, with his personal crest symbol being the Owl.
LaFortune's significant contributions to Canadian public art include a Salish Welcome Figure presented to H.R.H. Queen Elizabeth at the XV Commonwealth Games in Victoria, and two collaborative 30-foot totem poles carved for Butchart Gardens' 100th anniversary in 2004. His carvings are prominently displayed throughout B.C., notably at the University of Victoria and in the City of Totems in Duncan. In addition to monumental works, he is known for his daily drawings shared online, which use humour and metaphor to connect with his audience and offer positive community messages.