We are honoured to showcase the work of Coast Salish Artist Stuart Pagaduan in the Tour Salt Spring Logo
Stuart Pagaduan is a local Cowichan Tribes member and active community advocate for Cowichan teachings and language. Stuart has spent most of his life living as an inspirational Coast Salish Artist, while using his creative flow to build bridges between the Cowichan People and the larger Cowichan Valley community. He also creates a lot of imagery used within many schools and classrooms that help enhance student learning of Hul’q’umi’num’.
Stuart was fortunate enough to be raised by his grandparents, late Ben & Violet George. They shaped and guided him to be the speaker and leader he is today. Stuart still has the guidance of his mother, Philomena Williams, and has fortunately been able to do presentations alongside of her to many students of all ages from Kindergarten to University levels. Stuart has lived in Cowichan for his whole life and continues to guide his 2 children, and granddaughter like his parents and grandparents did for him.
When Stuart is not creating art images or working on other major projects, he is teaching for the Cowichan Valley School District as a Cultural and Language Teacher in various schools. Stuart is also serving his third term as a Elected Council member of Cowichan Tribes. Recently married to Darla Smith they both are committed to language and carrying on the legacy of their Elders.
