Artwork copyright Andrea Wilbur-Sigo. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Andrea Wilbur-Sigo. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Andrea Wilbur-Sigo. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Andrea Wilbur-Sigo. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Andrea Wilbur-Sigo. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Thunderbird Saves Wolf, 2004

Andrea Wilbur-Sigo
(American | Squaxin Island | Skokomish, born 1975)

Location: The Evergreen State College, Olympia

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

This hand-carved bentwood box Thunderbird Saves Wolf by Andrea Wilbur-Sigo (Squaxin Island and Skokomish) tells a story about not letting fish go to waste. Bentwood boxes are made from a single piece of cedar that is steamed and formed into the four-sided box shape. They were historically used by Indigenous people of the Northwest to store food and other objects, and they continue to be used today.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with The Evergreen State College.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Northwest carver and artist Andrea Wilbur-Sigo (Squaxin Island and Skokomish) has mastered Coast Salish art forms. She is the first known Native American woman carver of many generations of carvers. She also creates beadwork, button blankets, and baskets.

Andrea Wilbur-Sigo is an active member of the Squaxin Island Tribe (based around Shelton, Western Washington). Her artworks reflects her heritage and its strong artistic community. She serves her tribe as a member of the education committee and board member of the Tribal Museum. She teaches Coast Salish art classes to children and adults.