Pebblebellies
I am grateful to live, work and be nourished by the much of the beautiful land in British Columbia which remains unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), səlilwətaɬ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) K'ómoks and 'Na̱mg̱is Nations.
The Pebblebelly Story
For thousands of years, orca whales have traveled to a few extraordinary beaches along the remote islands of British Columbia’s Central Coast to rub their bellies on the smooth stones. This ritual is significant for these complex, social creatures, and witnessing it is pure magic.
My connection to this special place began 25 years ago, during my work in marine conservation with local communities, First Nations, and researchers. Now, as a full-time artist and with the blessing of local residents and conservationists, I collect a limited number of these pebbles each year for the Pebblebelly series, carefully replacing what I take with similar stones purchased from landscaping suppliers.
Adorning ourselves with natural objects is a sacred human ritual. While I love gemstones, their environmental impact weighs heavily on my heart. Instead, I find joy in collaborating with nature to gently create these magical, grounding pieces that honor the earth and the orcas who guide and protect me in dreams and visions.
A portion of the proceeds from each Pebblebelly supports orca research to help protect these majestic creatures and their habitats.
