01 Feb First Peoples Silver Carved Jewellery

February is Valentine’s Month! Come by the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and view our collection of hand carved silver jewellery and choose a gift for someone you care for. Consider commissioning a piece from our wide selection of talented Aboriginal artists or have a piece custom designed and made specifically for you.

All along the Pacific Northwest Coast, a rich history has evolved surrounding First Peoples hand carved silver jewellery. Beginning with the establishment of European Trading Posts where silver coins were given in exchange for animal pelts and other commodities, First Nations people creatively used these coins to produce elaborate jewellery. Clan crests were carved into the jewellery to identify the owner and their family group and has since developed into deep rooted tradition.

Today there are many talented First Nations artists that produce high quality; hand carved silver jewellery with elaborate design work. The tradition of this exquisite art form is deeply embedded in Pacific coastal cultural and is a symbol of status and prestige. Each animal symbol that is carved into the pieces has significance and represents the personality of the wearer.

FEATURING JEWELLERY ARTISTS

CARRIE MATILPI, KWAKUITL NATION
Carrie Matilpi is the daughter of famous Northwest Coast Jewellery master carver, Charles Harper. She is highly regarded in the Pacific Northwest Coast art scene for her classic and beautifully carved silver and gold carved jewellery. Carrie style is graceful and feminine with detailed lines and forms. Check out our selection or earrings and pendants by Carrie or consider commissioning a unique piece for that special occasion.

VICTORIA HARPER, KWAKUITL NATION
Victoria Harper carves with her sister Carrie Matilpi and they are both daughters of famous Northwest Coast Jewellery master carver, Charles Harper. Victoria’s work is sought after for her clean, detailed lines and masterful imagery, every piece has a story to tell. Known for her gold overlay on silver pieces, Victoria can custom design that special piece just for you or
your loved one.

BARRY WILSON, HAISLA NATION
Barry Wilson is a sought after jewellery crafter who’s work can be found in exclusive Galleries throughout the Pacific Northwest Coast. He specializes in high quality silver and gold pieces and is most known for his stone and shell inlays. Barry’s pieces have a timeless and elegant quality with flowing imagery and stunning opulence. Visit our Gallery to see our selection of Barry Wilson jewellery and consider having a custom piece designed to your specifications.

NANCY DAWSON
Nancy Dawson has been carving jewellery for over 25 years, she is one of the most recognized of all the Northwest Coast Jewellery carvers and is known for her classic style of silver and gold jewellery. The Gallery of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre carries a wide range of Nancy most popular pieces but you can also speak to us about custom work by Nancy.

For more details on artists and jewellery please visit: shop.slcc.ca