Guest Artist for September

Marla Philip

Weytkp, my name is Marla Philip. I am the daughter of the late Dancing Bear - Ernie Philip, and Yvonne Philip. Through my father I am of Splatsin and Little Shuswap Lake First Nations heritage and through my mother I am of French and Irish descent.

My dad was a world renowned dancer, cultural Knowledge Keeper and ambassador of the Secwepemc Nation. For the better understanding of natives and non-natives, he performed in 1200 schools and 17 countries. He was a co-founder of the Vancouver War Dance Club in the late 60’s and started the first pow-wows in BC. He was awarded first place at pow-wows throughout Canada and the States 27 times. He danced for Queen Elizabeth and is portrayed on a commemorative silver dollar. My mom taught herself to bead for our regalias.

I am the youngest of three. My brother, sister and I all began dancing with my father around the age of two. I had considered dance my art form, until my father passed October 1, 2023. To honour him in his traditional Wolverine headdress, I picked up some air dry clay and began to sculpt. I have not stopped since. Sculpting with my father’s left over regalia makings has not only helped the grieving process, but in reclaiming pride in and knowledge of my Indigenous heritage.