Njù Store
Arts and Artisans
Drawing upon two cultural traditions, Dän (Southern Tutchone) and Tlingit, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations have a strong community of artists and artisans.
The beauty and skill of those who create is evident in the one-of–a-kind pieces on permanent display at Da Kų. These include artworks such:
- “Coming of the Highway” mural by Ukjese van Kampen
- “Beginnings” painted by Art Joe
- “Mother Salmon” wood carving by Mick and Rick Beasley
- Owl, and (unfinished) Face – two tree carvings by unknown artists of the 19th century
Our community is also known for its clothing designers, and seamstresses who continue the tradition of producing skin and fur garments. We also have a number of wood carvers and woodworkers, as well as artists working in mediums such as bone, antler and stone.
Perhaps the most popular of our art forms is our beadwork tradition. For the Champagne and Aishihik people, beadwork is an individual expression of beauty, creativity and cultural connection. It is a highly valued heritage resource, a link to our history. Today we use glass beads to create designs on clothing and other items. In kwädąy (long ago) times, bone beads and quills were used to decorate things. Our beadwork tradition has been showcased in the Gúyàt (beads) exhibit, as well as through pieces on permanent display.
Njù Store
The Njù (store or gift shop) at Da Kų features locally made one-of-a-kind pieces, such as beaded slippers (moccasins), mukluks, gloves and vests. We also offer unique products with Da Kų Cultural Centre and Dakwakada (Haines Junction) graphics.
Da Kų staff can help you connect with our community artists and artisans. For more information, please contact our staff at
1-867-634-3300 Ext. 404. or daku@cafn.ca .