“Copper Owl” -   This is a rendition of an owl as it may have appeared on a copper shield.

Historic note:

Northwest Coast Indigenous copper shields were powerful symbols of wealth, identity, and authority. More than artistic or material objects, they served as living symbols of a chief's or clan's power, history, and social standing. Their importance goes far beyond their physical form, playing a vital role in the cultural and spiritual life of these communities.

About the artist:

Garrett Sankey

A Tsimshian descendant, Garrett was born in Chilliwack and has lived there all his life. His inspiration comes from this mountainous region and all it has to offer. Although his natural artistic abilities allow him to easily make designs or paint, he is not a full-time artist. His main medium is oil on canvas painting, but he also ventures into a creative two-dimensional design. He enjoys participating in the organic flowering of an idea as it becomes alive on canvas. He feels this growth comes through the work and communicates with the viewer. All of his pieces have a hidden message or purpose, some of which he will completely explain, and others are left to the viewers interpretation.