A Connection to Ancestral Roots
Dennis Shorty was born into a Kaska indigenous heritage, and much of his life has been spent near Ross River, Yukon. From a young age, he observed his grandfather and father skillfully carving traditional tools and toys, which sparked his passion for art. For Dennis, creating art is not merely a means of expression; it is a spiritual path, a way to communicate with his ancestors and keep their stories alive.
A Shared Vision
Supported by his wife, Jenny, Dennis Shorty now embarks on a shared mission to bring the richness of Kaska folk art, traditional music, the Kaska language, and ancestral cuisine to a wider audience. Their commitment to preserving and sharing these invaluable cultural treasures remains rooted in the community of Ross River, Yukon, where they have built their lives and their business.
Exploring the Natural Bounty
As part of their journey to reconnect with Kaska heritage, Dennis and Jenny actively engage with nature. They venture into the wilderness to gather native plants and herbs, carefully selecting each one for its significance in traditional practices. They also source traditional meats, such as moose, from indigenous hunters, incorporating them into a diverse array of delicious meals that they proudly serve to visitors staying in their homestay.
The Art Gallery Experience
The Art Gallery, curated by Dennis Shorty, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of traditional Kaska crafts. Within its walls, visitors are treated to an extraordinary collection of artwork, each piece uniquely crafted by Dennis himself. From intricately carved wooden sculptures to vibrant paintings that tell stories of Kaska heritage, every creation reflects the profound connection between art and culture.
Dennis welcomes art enthusiasts and collectors to the gallery, inviting them to immerse themselves in the beauty and authenticity of Kaska art. Here, visitors have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the artist, supporting his ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Kaska traditions.
““Dont’t look to the ground when you’re walking, always pay attention; listen to all that is around you – trees, birds, wind.””
— Dennis Shorty
Dennis Shorty’s artistic journey is a testament to the resilience and power of cultural heritage. Through his artistry and unwavering commitment, he breathes life into traditional Kaska crafts, music, language, and cuisine. Levida Furniture proudly showcases Dennis Shorty and invites you to explore the captivating world of Kaska heritage through his extraordinary artwork.
Dennis Shorty Fine Art Gallery and Studio
Jewellery
Dennis Art
Bear Mask
Levida Artist Community
Levida Furniture is proud to foster an inclusive and vibrant artist community, both locally and internationally. Through our dedicated platform, we provide a space for artists to showcase their talent and gain exposure. We believe in supporting emerging and established artists by featuring their work on our media channels, including our website and social media platforms.
This collaborative approach allows artists to reach a wider audience and connect with art enthusiasts from around the world. At Levida, we celebrate the diversity of artistic expression and strive to create opportunities for artists to thrive and flourish within our community. Join us on this artistic journey as we inspire and promote creativity in all its forms.
