I am of Kwakwaka’wakw and Gitksan descent. I was influenced by my parents, grandparents, and late husband Vernon Stephens in my cultural understanding. Vernon Stephens and Ken Mowatt were my instructors at the Kitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Art. Vernon always guided me to go back to the stories so that each piece had meaning. It is important to me that I harvest materials sustainably, so that Mother Earth is respected, and that there will always be resources left for my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Lastly, it has always been important for me to pass on what I know, so traditions and cultural knowledge are not lost.