About

KAYLA WAVE | ARTIST / SILVERSMITH 

Cháatl du tláa "Mother of Halibut”

Port Ludlow, Washington, USA

     I am Kayla Wave ( b.1993 ), Natural lineal lineage Raven moiety from the white frog

house of Gunaaxoo’Kwaan Dry Bay, Alaska, a self-taught silversmith and proud member of the

Tlingit community and mother of  five. Growing up in the lush Pacific Northwest,

my childhood was steeped in the rhythms of nature, culture, and traditional art —chasing frogs,

cultural dance in our dance group Kuteeyaa, gallery/museum hopping with my mother,

birdwatching, potlatches and exploring the region’s rich ecosystems. These early experiences

fostered a deep, enduring connection to the natural world and my culture, which remains at the

heart of my artistic practice. I explore storytelling and mix themes of nature, drawing

inspiration from Tlingit clan motifs and animals we live alongside and honor.

     As a silversmith, I transform silver into intricate pieces of storytelling jewelry inspired by

the animals and textures I see in nature—whether it's the delicate veins of a leaf, the swirling

patterns in water, or the grace of wildlife. Each piece reflects the resilience and beauty of life,

symbolized by the sun and, often in my work, Raven, who traditionally gave us Tlingit people

light. With sterling silver as my medium - I saw, layer, solder, and hand carve details. Hand-

picked stones, usually cut from remnants. I find beauty and value in the uniquess of the

inclusions of within stones and honor them with pure silver or golden bezels. My artistic practice

bridges traditional techniques with contemporary approaches.

     I aim to educate on conservation, preserve culture, and inspire in creating my work. By

merging ancient symbolism with modern artistry, I invite viewers to engage with the richness of

Tlingit culture and nature and its relevance in today’s world. I support conservation efforts of

the animals we live long side, and art is my way of honoring such. While my work is deeply

inspired by nature, it is also rooted in the cultural traditions of my Tlingit heritage. The

symbolism and artistry of my people influence my designs, adding a layer of cultural depth and

meaning to each piece. Through my craft, I aim to connect others to the natural world and to

the rich history of my community.

     My work represents a dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation. With

over a decade of practice, I continue to evolve as an artist, exploring new techniques and

materials to push the boundaries of my craft. Through the timeless medium of metal, I strive to

honor my roots while forging connections across cultures.