‘ In our world, it is understood that you cannot separate the land from the water; they depend on each other to make the whole. In the same way, you cannot separate art from our way of life, for without this context it has little meaning. Haida art is a part of Haida culture, introduced by the supernaturals and developed by the Haida people over thousands of years. In its truest function, our art represents who we are and where we come from.’ Jisgang (Nika Collison), of the Ts’aahl Eagle Clan. “Raven Travelling, Two Centuries of Haida Art”
Most fashion pieces are created from pre-patterned 2 dimensional yardages cut and sewn into a finished sculptural form. Yáahl, Gúud, Tsai starts with the sculpture. Recycled curtain sheers, once diaphanous boundaries between our homes’ inner and outer worlds, are shaped to become transparent boundaries between the bodys’ inner and outer worlds.
This relationship inspired our idea to layer Haida crests onto these structures. Haida formline animals, depictions from the landscape of Haida Gwaii, also illustrate stories of their supernatural relationship with the Haida people. For thousands of years, Haida storytellers/carvers/painters/weavers have illustrated depictions of the relationship between all living beings from under the surface of the water, through the surface of the sky or upon the earth. We aspire that our layering of these beings upon diaphanous clothing further illustrates this relationship. Everything is one, together.
Áatl’aan uu dáng íijang . You are here.
The blank structure is the canvas. The imagery of the entire construct is in one piece, passing through seams and over neck holes, around arms and under hems; there is no limit to where the image, the narrative, can go. The woman’s body brings the story to life through her shape and movement.
It is our mandate to fulfill the ethical consumers’ desire for uniquely designed clothing by transforming discarded materials into art structures for women. We want to provide wearable art within which women can celebrate the Haida culture.
The clothing is intended to illustrate the layers of women’s experiences within, on and outside their body; reflections of self, processes of transformation, foundations of cultural identity. We wish to inspire metaphors for healing and acceptance; inviting new ways to interpret oneself and how one wants to be seen in the world.
Yáahl, G̱úud, Tsai pieces are long lasting because the material, although translucent, is tough; stain/sun/fade resistant. Wash by hand, hang dry, no ironing necessary.
“Wendy and Reg’s collaboration is an elegant fusion of contemporary fashion and Haida artistry. Their pieces become a part of significant areas of our lives in a beautiful way.”
Marilyn Slett,
Heilksut Chief
Known as the trickster, transformer and creator, Yáahl shapes itself and the world around it with spontaneous aplomb, often creating mischief. Ravens love shiny things.
Known as a spiritual guide that provides connection to a higher realm, Guud represents strength of character, courage and healing power. Eagles mate for life and are fiercely loyal.
Known for intelligence, leadership and a strong sense of family values, Guuj is a great team player and mates for life. G̱úuj symbolizes perseverance, intuition and success .
The Hummingbird is the messenger of joy. Known for its fortitude and ability to overcome great obstacles, Dakdakdíiyáa symbolizes the spirit of metamorphosis, peace, healing and love.
Ts’ing are determined builders of the mind, body and soul. A hard worker, they symbolize creativity, cooperation, persistence and harmony.
Hlḵ’yáan ḵ’úst’aan is the voice of the people, symbolizing openness, stability and superior communication. It represents great wealth.
Tsiin is the provider of life. Bringing the riches of the sea to spawning rivers, Salmon symbolizes prosperity, fertility, abundance, renewal and good luck.
A collaboration between renowned Haida artist Reg Davidson and textile artist Wendy Van Riesen.
Wendy Van Riesen
wendyvanriesen@gmail.com
Visit Dahlia Drive
Erma Lawrence
Candace Weir – iihlajaadkaanas of the Yaghujaanas clan
Jasḵwaan Bedard
Advisor: Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson
Permission to use phrases from Ýaat Kíl hl Sñ’at’áa! Alaskan Haida Phrasebook Written by Áljuhl Erma Lawrence Edited by Yáahl Ñ’ánggwdangaa Jordan Lachler Sealaska Heritage
‘Wáadluwaan díi dah gudáang. I want to buy all of it.
Dángkw gudangáay ‘láa us? Are you happy?
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