Description

Join the partners of the Indigenous Businesses Working Group at Semá:th First Nation Hall on August 26 to acknowledge, learn and celebrate Indigenous storytelling, creativity, art and business through an evening of film, reflection, and community connection. This in-person gathering will showcase a short video created by Woven Cedar Films, featuring local artisans who share their experiences and perspectives.

The event will provide space to experience these stories together, engage in meaningful conversation, and reflect on the themes shared throughout the film. Following the screening, a moderated panel discussion will invite community members and guests to further explore ideas, perspectives, and opportunities for continued collaboration.

Light appetizers will be provided by Raven's Brewing!

Nate Dickson is a member of Kwantlen First Nation, born and raised in Langley, BC, where he still lives. He founded Woven Cedar Films, a video production company that works with non-profits and First Nations organizations to capture their stories, and travels across Canada to film events and short documentaries.

Raphael Silver (Xe'y teleq) from Sumas First Nation started carving at a young age emulating his father (Ray Silver) and studying any printed material available. Raphael started his artistic career as a painter and has continued on to various mediums including wood, canvas, steel, brick, glass and tattoos. Much of Raphaels work can be seen in the form of public art, he continues to develop his Salish techniques with an emphasis on his Sto:lo heritage.

Ray Silver (Xe'y teleq) from the Semath First Nation has been an active carver for the last 43 years. After a brief introduction to the art form, Ray has progressed throughout his career, to the level considered by the art community of expert or master. Ray has developed much of his craft through numerous artist in residencies contracted by the Abbotsford school district and through a vast catalogue of pieces most notably an extensive volume of masks held in private collections which have been commissioned by collectors. Ray continues to strive to refine his Salish form, spreading Sto:lo culture throughout the surrounding community. 

Katherine Silver, born on an Sumas First Nation, my parents are Ray and Irene Silver. My interest in carving began in the 1960’s. I was gifted carving tools from Carol Paul. I started carving with my tool, doing masks, portrait mask, eagle mask. France Horn started a class at Caroleotza, I went to the class for awhile.
In 1994, I moved to Hazelton BC and I went to Ksan Carving School. My first year I was taught by Vernon Stephens. My second year I was trained under Ken Mowatt. From Hazelton, carving spoon, bowls, flute’s, totem poles, copper shields. Masks, horns, Bent Boxes, canoe boxes.  My instructors were known for creating and teaching beauty, and teaching the value of the cedar trees. 

Tsuwi’it (Michael Epp) Gitlaan tribe , Ganhada, Waap Xpii hana’ax , Ts’msyen . Born in Matsqui BC 1962, started painting North Westcoast designs in 1980 and started carving 1982 , learned from grandfather Laguad to carve spoons and halibut hooks, later took a course at Coqualeetza under Francis Horne Sr and continued working with Francis for 4 years . Carving masks , bowls , rattles , poles . Carved with multiple carvers from all over the northwest coast over the years