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 Raven and Light (Creativity) by Trevor Angus
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
-
Trevor Angus, whose traditional name is Tka'ast, was born in Kispiox, British Columbia, in 1970. He belongs to the House of Wii minoosik and is of Gitxsan and Wetsuweten heritage. Angus began carving at a young age, creating his first plaque in the fourth grade under the guidance of Victor Mowatt. He continued to learn from Mowatt throughout high school and also received instruction from Dan Yunkws. He spent significant time at Ksan, observing the carvers there.
After high school, Angus was accepted into the Kitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art at Ksan in Hazelton. There, he studied under master carvers Vernon Stephens and Ken Mowatt, completing the four-year program in 1998. His studies encompassed the design and carving of various forms, including plaques, ladles, panels, masks, rattles, paddles, and steam-bent boxes. Since graduating, Angus has further refined his skills in gold and silver jewellery engraving through an apprenticeship with Phillip Janze. He has also had the opportunity to learn from notable artists such as Shawn Edenshaw, Robert Tait, Earl Muldon, and the late Walter Harris.
Angus is known for creating panel works in cedar, incorporating traditional Ksan style and design. His pieces are recognized for their thoughtful execution, consistency, and deep carving. He currently lives and works as a full-time artist in Vancouver. In 2021, he gained further recognition for designing the alternate sports jersey logo for the University of Northern BC Timberwolves, making them the first Canadian university athletic program to feature a logo by an Indigenous artist.