Artwork copyright Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. Photo courtesy of the artists, by Rodrick Merrell, 2019.

Artwork copyright Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. Photo courtesy of the artists, by Sui Lan Hookano.

Artwork copyright Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. Photo courtesy of Enumclaw High School, 2022.

People of the Plateau, 2022

Muckleshoot Indian Tribe

Location: Enumclaw High School, Enumclaw

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

People of the Plateau represents the Muckleshoot spirit and experience, which is tied to the land, the waters, and the idea of home. The central image is a face carved from western redcedar wood by Muckleshoot tribal members Tyson Simmons and Keith Stevenson. It represents the spirit of the ancestors who passionately fought to keep the little land that is left for the tribe. Above it is Tahoma (often called Mount Rainier). Tahoma overlooks and defines the entirety of the traditional Muckleshoot homeland. An elk head can be seen within Tahoma, and this is a traditional detail that is always included in Muckleshoot representations of the mountain. The paired salmon represent the traditional existence. They also represent the two important, local rivers to the Muckleshoot: the Green River and the White River. These rivers are lifelines that provide the salmon but are also the traditional highways for the canoes. The sacred hoop design encircles all elements. It holds no beginning or ending, and is a symbol of infinity, balance, strength, and equality.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Enumclaw School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe Culture Department has the unique ability to demonstrate Muckleshoot/Coast Salish Art. Each of the staff members and artists maintain cultural expertise while nurturing and protecting the intellectual and spiritual property rights of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. As educators, they also have a deep understanding of Muckleshoot, as well as local history. As the original peoples of the Southern Puget Sound, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe have acted as the stewards of this land for thousands of years, through hundreds of generations.