Born in Comox, British Columbia in 1969 to a Dzawada'enuxw First Nations

mother and a Caucasian father, this artist's work combines the symbolic

elements of her two cultures to create a bi-cultural visual language.

While studying western art at Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design she

was simultaneously tutored by master Kwakiutl artist Wayne Alfred in

traditional Kwa'kwa'kawkw art. Utilizing artistic mediums from both

cultures she explores themes of native historical and contemporary

existence. Both the personal and political elements of being a native

person existing within Canada today are explored throughout her works.

Creating works that contain both western and traditional elements is an

atempt to break down catagorizational barriers that have been

constructed by dominant society and placed upon traditional artistic

expressions. Ultimately, the artist's prime objectives are to raise

awareness and sensitivity towards contemporary native existence and to

celebrate the continuance of a rich cultural practice.

tjbaker@tvl.com