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. 

7 items

Strongman Bronze
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

1999 Edition 3/12 In the beginning, according to Nisga'a legend, the Nisga'a figure Txeemsim (abo...

1999 Edition 3/12 In the beginning, according to Nisga'a legend, the Nisga'a figure Txeemsim (above) fought with the Gitxsan figure Wegyet for control of the Nass River Valley. Txeemsim won, so in a show of strength and to mark his victory, he captured a rainbow and held it up for all to see.

$7,000.00

Where The People Gather
Vicky Jensen

First Edition, Signed  The first book to document the entire process of carving a totem pole feat...

First Edition, Signed  The first book to document the entire process of carving a totem pole featuring Norman Tait. 

$40.00

Raven
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

1977 Edition 63/156 Print is currently out for framing. Will only be available framed. Please con...

1977 Edition 63/156 Print is currently out for framing. Will only be available framed. Please contact the gallery directly. 

$950.00

Story Teller
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

1979 Edition 245/450 Print is currently out for framing. Will only be available framed. Please co...

1979 Edition 245/450 Print is currently out for framing. Will only be available framed. Please contact the gallery directly. 

$700.00

Moon Mask
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

1998 Indigenous artwork on the Pacific Northwest Coast often incorporates figures and animals tha...

1998 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. Moon is...

$28,000.00

Dogfish Spirit Panel
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

We're waiting for this piece to arrive...photos coming soon! Indigenous artwork on the Pacific No...

We're waiting for this piece to arrive...photos coming soon! 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, i...

$12,000.00

Shaman Bronze
Norman Tait (Nisga'a)

2005 Edition 1/6 In collaboration with Norman's wife, Lucinda Turner

2005 Edition 1/6 In collaboration with Norman's wife, Lucinda Turner

$125,000.00