Living Cultures
Celebrating Resilience in the Indigenous Cultures of the Pacific Northwest

As a photographer I have collaborated with indigenous peoples in Southeast Alaska, British Columbia and Washington State in creating many, many photographic images. My photography of First Nations and Native cultures over the last 30 years, celebrates their continuing resilience and vibrancy through portraits with a magnificent backdrop of natural beauty that is the Pacific Northwest Coast.

My camera lens acts as a bridge between native and non-native cultures. I am a daughter of an immigrant and an artist which adds to and illuminates my photography. I use light and shadow, color and silhouette to present Indigenous peoples straddling two worlds. Through what I see I try to portray a glimpse of native communities and ancient traditions intertwined with activities of daily life: running an office, making ceremonial button blankets, taking care of aging family members, fishing for salmon as generations have done, carving a canoe or mask. Also, with great patience and critically important, these community members watch over the cultural education of younger generations; who are considered the greatest resource within Native and First Nations communities.