Shain Jackson is Coast Salish from Sechelt. As a lawyer representing indigenous communities and endeavours, Shain is familiar with the mire of human behaviour and the law with its complexities, its intent, and its effects. He has worked tirelessly to protect the rights of artists and to raise awareness of cultural appropriation and its harmful impacts on indigenous people. He is also an artist himself.
In some ways, artists also deal with complexities, intent, and effects, just like lawyers. Symbolism can encompass, distill, and deliver strong messages. It is powerful and needs to be handled with wisdom and respect, just like the law.
Shain is currently taking a break from the legal profession to channel passion and energy into his artwork. ‘Purity’ is what comes to mind when viewing his creations. Purity of form and a timeless sense of proportion make his work seem contemporary and classical all at once. Shain’s gorgeous vessels, bowls, and boxes are functional and sublime. He works with beautiful materials to produce work that is sophisticated and layered with symbolism and meaning.
Shain is aware of the challenges experienced by indigenous artists. He founded Spirit Works, an indigenous owned, operated, and staffed company that aims to support indigenous communities and artists with programs, space, equipment, expertise, training, and employment. Spirit Works also provides workshops for youth. Shain, through Spirit Works, has donated a valuable painted and inlaid bentwood box to the First Nations Law Students Scholarship fund. Giving back is never secondary to the bottom line.
This sense of responsibility extends to the greater world. Caring for the environment is woven into the artistry of Spirit Works; reusing, recycling, and making the most of materials is always a priority at the studio. This is the way to create sustainably and soul, and it ensures the approval of respected elders
