Spirit Works

At the heart of Spirit Works is the visionary leadership of Shain Niniwum Selápem Jackson, a Shishálh First Nation member whose commitment to preserving and evolving the traditional art and craftsmanship of his culture underpins the ethos of the company. The unyielding dedication to authenticity sets Spirit Works apart in a market that is too often flooded with imitations that lack the soul and narrative of true Indigenous creations.

Spirit Works’ repertoire of Indigenous products is extensive and deeply reflective of the profound connection between art and identity. Their traditional cultural pieces, such as the exquisite bentwood boxes—which are a feat of both artistic endeavor and skilled workmanship—and the intricately designed wooden jewelry, carry the stories and traditions of the West Coast Indigenous peoples. Each item serves not solely as a commodity but as a continuation of a lineage, a tangible expression of the heritage that Shain Niniwum Selápem Jackson and his team are committed to preserving.

Moreover, the scope of their work extends well beyond these cultural artifacts, as Spirit Works also specializes in integrating First Nations themes into functional items. From majestic doors that stand as gatekeepers of history to boardroom tables and retail units that facilitate the sharing of culture in corporate and commercial spaces, these items do more than fill a space – they tell a story, they educate, and they inspire.

Public art installations by Spirit Works serve as yet another testament to their dedication to cultural storytelling and aesthetic excellence. These public pieces beckon viewers to delve deeper into the narratives woven into the wood, an invitation to a dialogue with history and artistry.

The collaborative spirit that underpins the creation process at Spirit Works is truly where its distinction lies. The partnership between staff, or the synergy with guests in creating pieces, exemplifies a communal approach to art creation, harking back to traditional Indigenous practices where art is a shared endeavor—a collective voice rather than a solitary whisper.

It is Spirit Works’ partnerships, after all, that are the bedrock of its identity, fostering a sense of community, inclusivity, and shared purpose. In every meticulously crafted piece, whether a functional item or a piece of adornment, the fusion of West Coast Indigenous art and craftsmanship is evident, making Spirit Works an ambassador of culture, an educator of history, and an innovator in the world of Indigenous art.