Northwest Coast Design
Wood Carving, Silver Engraving and Repousse
Leavenworth, WA
509 763-0870
jsr02@peoplepc.com

Sy was born in Chicago. Frequent trips to the Field
Museum introduced her to the remarkable art of the Indians living in the Pacific Northwest. She did her Grammar School Graduation project on what was then called
Primitive Art. A seed was planted.

After a short time as a flight attendant and a longer time in the skiing industry she started working on boats in Seattle. This led to Alaska-fishing boats and totem poles.

Sy had the excellent opportunity to take classes in Northwest Coast Art at the Totem Heritage Center in Ketchikan from some of the greatest artists in the field. They include, Ernie Smeltzer, Freda Deising, Duane Pasco, Bill Holm. Dempsey Bob, Steve Brown, Phil Janze, Gary Marks, Nathan Jackson, Israel Shotridge, Stan Marsden, George David and others.

Sy received a Certificate of Merit from the Totem Heritage Center where she taught classes and led craft nights.

Sy's artwork has won prizes at the Anacortes Arts Festival and has had her work in Galleries in Ketchikan and now has work at Miller's Fine Art Gallery. Recently Sy received her certificate for Outstanding Achievement in Jewelry Design as a finalist in the 2004 Saul Bell Design Award Competition in the Silver Category. 

 

Artist's Statement
My inspiration comes from the Northwest Coast First People and their myths. Their connection to nature is still strong and vital and their art carries spirit.