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First Nations Art of the Northwest
These products are made in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. The focus is on representing and supporting Indigenous people. Preserving the history of our First Nations is at the heart of every product available. Each item is created by an artist with First Nation roots or membership.
These skilled artists are preserving their heritage through each piece that reflects their tribe's unique heritage and values. Created from materials such as wool, leather, and cotton these items are gentle on the earth as well. The artists are commission-paid to ensure fair pay and representation of their work.
About the Artist:
Bill Helin was born in 1960 in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. He is a member of the Tsimshian First Nation of northwestern British Columbia. His family also has descendants from the Gits'iis tribe in the village of Lax Kw'alaams. His Grandfather Henry William Helin, was Chief of the Gitlan Tribe. His Grandmother Maud Helin, was Chief of the Gitgeese Tribe.
Bill's skills include jewelry design, engraving, writing, and design. His focus is on Tsimshian art. He’s also a singer and storyteller. Another specialty of his is creating logos and products. He’s mostly a self-taught artist though he received training from K’San, a famous art and carving school in Hazelton.
He is also a drumming specialist. Alongside his daughter and granddaughter, he teaches drumming and wellness programs throughout British Columbia. They also host drum circles and presentations.
In 1996 Bill designed three patches for astronauts on the Columbia shuttle. Over the years he created patches, educational information and artwork for NASA and the Canadian Space Agency. He also helped create the largest Totem Pole in the world (192’ 3” tall!), carved a 40’ dugout canoe, and has illustrated over 110 children’s books.
