Indigenous Businesses Based on the Island Territories of the Coast Salish Peoples
The following is by no means a definitive list of Indigenous businesses based around the territories of the Coast Salish Peoples; but we hope it acts as a starting point for your next visit.
On what are known as the Southern Gulf Islands, part of the unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations and Hul’quimi’num Treaty Group, is a flourishing network of Indigenous businesses. This includes makers, designers, healers, and more who call this place home.
With offerings available both online and in person, you may already have experienced part of this essential piece of our local cultural landscape. Maybe you have a pair of treasured beadwork earrings from Only Child Handicrafts or have paddled with Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions. Indigenous work is an integral aspect of the galleries, markets, and communities here.
But there is always more art to see, knowledge to learn, and adventures to experience.
Indigenous businesses on the islands
On Galiano
Shar Wilson is a Gitxsan artist whose ancestral name translates to “splash made by the whale’s tail as it hits the surface of the ocean.” A Galiano-based artist, she is the proud owner and creator behind Shar Wilson Designs (SWD); a clothing and accessory brand splashed with stunning designs. Shar also runs Lelum Sar Augh Ta Naogh First Nation, a society for the Coast Salish Peoples of Galiano.
On Mayne
Born in the interior, Wayne Thomas has been on Mayne Island since he was five. His mother is Salish-Shushwap, and his father is Ojibwa. Wayne works primarily in wood and silver, carving in the Nuu-Chah-Nulth style. Throughout his long career as an artist, both on the islands and abroad, he’s worked with master carvers and developed a stunning body of work. His works are found at galleries across the Gulf Islands and in Victoria.
On Pender
For those looking for an outdoor adventure designed around environmental Indigenous education, Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions on Pender Island is the go-to. Based out of Poets Cove Resort & Spa, Kye (the self-proclaimed Boss Goddess) offers a host of kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking, dog sledding, yoga, retreats, and kids’ camps. Dog Mermaid has recently launched a new Pender storefront to showcase Indigenous creators.
On Salt Spring
When she isn’t following her Bird Spirit (Piwayisis), Amanda Bird’s home base is Salt Spring Island, where she is the healer behind Native Earth WildCraft Healing. Of Mikisew Cree and Czechoslovakian descent from Denendeh (Yellowknife, Northwest Territories) with extensive and varied training, she works with plant medicine on an energetic level, creating botanical-based products to soothe the mind, body, and soul. Her range of offerings is available for purchase online and at in-person events.
Quentin Harris is a multidisciplinary Salish artist, cultural teacher, and filmmaker who lives and works on Salt Spring. Although he has taught across BC, he has become especially beloved by local students, thanks to his work as a First Nations Artist and Cultural Advisor for School District #64. There are no bounds to Quentin’s creative energy and spirit, from community projects to his own carvings to paintings. His print and artwork are available online.
Another famous local resident is Salt Springs’s own Krysta Furioso: An Ojibwe creator who has called the Coast Salish territories home for over 25 years. Only Child Handicrafts blends indigenous patterns and contemporary styles into one-of-a-kind beadwork earrings, bracelets, and more. Check back regularly for new drops. Shop her work in her online store, and remember to check back regularly for new designs.
For more wearable art, there is also Good Woman Hand Craft. Run by Jenessa, who is of Red River Metis, Scottish, French, and Ukrainian descent, Good Woman primarily focuses on working in the fibre arts world, from handmade sheepskin collars to crocheted accessories. Jenessa’s designs are available through her online shop.
Beyond the creative realms, Stqeeye’ Learning Society is an Indigenous-led non-profit organization focused on restoring the traditional Xwaaqw’um village site (also known as Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park). Bringing together elders, knowledge keepers, youth, and others, the Stqeeye’ Learning Society is working on several initiatives. Including Our Grandmothers’ Garden (a P’hwulhp/Garry Oak restoration project), the restoration of 20 hectares of wetland, and the Youth on the Land initiative. This latter project works to share stories, skills, and traditional teachings with Indigenous youth.
Nearby…
Although not based on one of the Southern Gulf Islands, Gulf Island Seaplanes is well worth a mention. They offer year-round scenic tours of the islands so you can experience the incredible landscapes from above.
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Whether you live here or are visiting for the first time, be sure to check out the local Indigenous businesses on the islands and territories of the Coast Salish Peoples. Make a point to learn about those whose wisdom about the land and water has been passed down for generations.
Did we miss someone? This is a living resource, and we’d love to keep adding to it. Please get in touch if you are or know of a business, artist, or organization we should mention.
Written by Jessica McKeil
