Norman Tait

Norman Tait, was born in Kincolith, British Columbia, is celebrated as a master carver of the Nisga'a nation. Deeply rooted in his cultural heritage, Tait's artistic journey was influenced by his father, Chief Josiah Tait, a skilled carver who introduced him to the traditional practices of the Nisga'a people. This early exposure set the foundation for Tait's lifelong dedication to preserving and revitalizing Nisga'a art. Tait's Native name was Enah-aha-lagh, which means Bear with no Hair on One Side.

After completing his education in Alberta and northern British Columbia, Tait moved to Vancouver in 1970, where he began to focus intensively on carving. He expanded his expertise by studying under renowned artists such as Freda Diesing and Gerry Marks, which allowed him to refine his skills in both flat design and silver carving.

Tait's work is characterized by his ability to merge traditional Nisga'a designs with innovative techniques. His early artwork exemplifies this fusion and garnered significant public attention, leading to numerous commissions.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Tait played a pivotal role in preserving Nisga'a cultural heritage, exemplary of this is his work with the UBC Museum of Anthropology. Moreover, a testament to Tait's commitment to safeguarding his people's traditions. Tait's immersion in Nisga'a culture and language further enriched his art, allowing him to document and incorporate family histories and legends into his creations.

Norman Tait's legacy as a master carver is profound, ensuring that the artistic traditions of the Nisga'a nation continue to inspire and resonate with future generations. His work has not only preserved the cultural heritage of his ancestors but also brought it to the attention of audiences worldwide.

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Dogfish Spirit Panel
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

Indigenous artwork on the Pacific Northwest Coast often incorporates figures and animals that are...

Indigenous artwork on the Pacific Northwest Coast often incorporates figures and animals that are related to crest symbols. Crests have been passed down through families and have varying meanings depending on the context and association with a nation, clan, or family. The figures depicted in contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous artwork also have varying meanings but there are some common characteristics from a range of sources, including oral histories and artist descriptions. Dogfish is a...

$12,000.00