Experience painting PNW Native Art!
"THE HUMMINGBIRD"
A modern encounter with the ancient world of formline art
Join us for a fun AND cultural art experience with Tlingit tribal member and formline artist, Wéidaaká Yóodóohaa (Bill Pfeifer, Jr.).
In this immersive painting experience you'll paint your own colorful formline Hummingbird on a red cedar plank.
In Tlingit and Northwest Coast cultures, the hummingbird represents joy, love, beauty, and resilience, often acting as a messenger of peace and positivity.
Due to their agility and vibrant nature, they are seen as graceful spirit guides that bring comfort and remind people to cherish the present moment.
What to Expect:
In the relaxing environment of the Gasthaus, you'll encounter the rich connections of an ancient art form, which depicts animals, supernatural beings,
and figures from oral histories.
As you paint, sounds of traditional village music and flowing waters will surround you, drawing you closer to both your artwork and the vibrant native art
culture surrounding us.
-Enjoy a selection of beverages and lite bites (included) that will enhance your connection to the Pacific Northwest.
(BYOB and outside food is also allowed in this experience)
- This unique art-making session invites you to explore the visual language of the native peoples of the Northwest Coast of North America.
- No painting experience is required; all you need is the willingness to use your inner creativity and embrace the beauty of formline.
Mother's Day is approaching- consider treating her to a shared experience:
making art!
"The Hummingbird" Native Art painting session offers an unforgettable gift she'll treasure forever!
Artist- Bill Pfeifer, Jr (Wéidaaká Yóodóohaa)
Bill (Wéidaaká Yóodóohaa) is a proud member of the Tlingit tribe, whose artistry seamlessly blends traditional Tlingit craftsmanship with modern urban aesthetics. Growing up in the vibrant culture of the 80s and 90s, Bill's diverse background includes influences from skateboarding, graffiti, anime, music, and technology. These elements are intricately woven into his artwork and brand Formline Evolved, where he reinterprets formline, a unique and ancient art style of the Native peoples of the Northwest Coast of North America.
Inspired by his father, an artist who instilled in him the fundamentals of formline design, Bill conveys the stories, values, and beliefs of the Tlingit people through his creations. He has also had the honor of studying under Nathan Jackson, a distinguished Tlingit master carver renowned for his totem pole artistry, alongside Bill’s father.
Employing digital tools such as Fresco, Photoshop, and Illustrator, Bill produces vibrant and dynamic designs that pay homage to the rich tradition of formline art. His mission is to share this cultural heritage with a wider audience, fostering awareness and appreciation for Tlingit artistry. In 2024, Bill was commissioned by Friends of Waterfront Park to create six murals that transformed shipping containers along the historic Seattle waterfront. Bill's design, "Endurance and Strength: The Power of the Clan House".will represent Celebration 2026.
A Tlingit tribal member from Southeast Alaska, Bill resides in Washington with his beloved wife, Hailey, and their two young children. He continues to maintain a strong connection to his culture and homeland.