In the beautiful coastal and river regions of the Pacific Northwest, paddles are both a functional necessity of coastal life as well as a symbol of an ancient and enduring artistic journey.

Northwest Coast art is filled with potent images that continue to evolve. Some of the most striking imagery is often depicted on paddles, at once utilitarian yet highly symbolic object in that they are used to propel the individual, as well as the community forward.

Paddles have traditionally displayed individual crests however today we see imagery that often makes a social statement about man’s place in the world. 

 
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