Chilkat Copperman

Generations before written history on the Northwest Coast, a type of weaving was practiced by the Tsimshian people of Kitkatla. This very complex weaving has been carried on by the Chilkat Tlinglit people and is known today as Chilkat Weaving. I have recently come to know a young Tsimshian man from Port Simpson, who is the first person I know of to have taken up this beautiful weaving style and continue it today. It is this man, William, who has inspired me to create some of my own designs for use in weavings. The first of these works is titled Copperman as that is my name. As a Hoylikila, I dance the dance of the ancients, which is always done while wearing the Chilkat weavings. I have not danced with the Chilkat as I am not that wealthy. As Tlakwakila (Copper Man), I will carry on the tradition of Chilkat with the help of many people and one day be able to dance with the Chilkat.