Seattle’s Eighth Generation: Native-American-Owned Business Revolutionizing the Art World
Seattle has become the epicenter of a Native American art revolution, spearheaded by Eighth Generation, the largest Native-American-owned business in the city. This thriving enterprise is making waves in the art world, offering authentic Native American artwork to the masses.
Founded by Louie Gong, a self-taught cultural artist, Eighth Generation is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the vibrant art of the Coast Salish tribes. With humble beginnings inside Pike Place Market, the business recently made a significant move to a First Avenue storefront, expanding its reach and influence.
Gong’s inspiration for the name Eighth Generation stems from his desire to honor his family heritage. The term eight in Cantonese sounds like the word for prosperity, signifying the business’s auspicious aspirations. As a person of Native, Chinese, and white descent, Gong embraces the significance of all his cultural backgrounds.
The mission of Eighth Generation is to elevate the art of the Coast Salish tribes, rectifying its historical suppression. The business showcases contemporary Coast Salish artists who are transforming the perception of what represents their communities. The resurgence of Coast Salish artwork spans from Vancouver to Portland, instigating a cultural renaissance.
One of the prized offerings of Eighth Generation is a collection of blankets manufactured and labeled in Georgetown. These intricately designed pieces, like Kira Murillo’s work, fuse traditional and contemporary elements and showcase the talent of Native American artists. The business is careful to feature artists from various tribes across the country, ensuring geographical representation and diversity.
Although Eighth Generation has already made a mark globally through its website, CEO Colleen Echohawk, an enrolled member of the Pawnee Tribe, envisions exponential growth for the company. Gong, who started the business in his living room and later sold it to the Snoqualmie Tribe, dreams of Eighth Generation becoming a recognized brand worldwide, with customers from Holland, Germany, Japan, and beyond.
With a limitless sky as their vision, Eighth Generation aims to continue promoting Native American art and culture on a global scale. Their commitment to authenticity, diversity, and collaboration with artists from different tribes positions them as a driving force in the art world, breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of Native American artists.
To explore the incredible artwork offered by Eighth Generation, visit their website and discover the rich heritage and creativity that shines through each masterpiece.
