Alcheringa Gallery
665 Fort Street
Victoria, BC, Canada
TEL: (250) 383-8224
FAX: (250) 383-9399
email alcheringa
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Doug LaFortune
Coast Salish
Doug LaFortune (b. 1953) was born in Bellingham, Washington. After attending school in Victoria, Doug studied Fine Arts at Camosun College in 1970. Uncertain of his future path, Doug enrolled in a Heavy Equipment Operators course and worked in logging until 1972. A visit to Simon Charlie at his workshop in Koksilah, BC, rekindled a desire to pursue the arts. Simon, already a world-renowned artist, inspired and encouraged Doug to pursue his artistic talents. Simon's knowledge of the Coast Salish artistic and cultural history laid a solid foundation for Doug's sculptural style; encouraging the use of contemporary styles based on classic Coast Salish design. Utilizing Simon's teaching, broadening his range of work, Doug has developed a unique and distinctive style. Whether carving a massive totem pole or masks, feast dishes or small figures, Doug's love and appreciation of carving can be seen and felt in the wood.
Doug's latest accomplishment was the opportunity to carve a Salish Welcome Figure, which was presented to HRH Queen Elizabeth at the Opening Ceremonies of the XV Commonwealth Games in Victoria, BC. Doug was also commissioned to paint a backdrop Dance Screen depicting the Thunderbird and Killerwhale measuring 12-ft x 25-ft, to be used at the Cultural Village at the Lauwelnew Tribal School.
His numerous designs have led to the release of several silk-screened prints and garments. One of the most outstanding is New Beginning, depicting the classic Thunderbird and Killerwhale, which is used as an identifying hallmark of original Coast Salish handcrafted work.
Doug's other interests include hunting and fishing throughout his traditional territories. Coaching is another strong interest, whether with his ball hockey team or with his son's hockey and lacrosse teams, which he finds very rewarding. He is married to Kathleen and they have three children who have a very avid interest in Native Art and Culture. Doug and his family are members of the Tsawout Band and live on tribal territory in Saanichton, BC.
Doug LaFortune’s work can be viewed in galleries including:
Royal BC Museum Shop, Victoria, BC
Chinook Trading, Victoria, BC
Art of Man, Victoria, BC
Native Heritage Centre, Duncan, BC
Hill’s Indian Crafts, Vancouver, BC
His work is on display at CFRN Broadcasting, Edmonton, Alberta; City of Totems, Duncan, BC; and in collections in Japan, Europe and throughout the United States.
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Pieces by Doug LaFortune:
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