Announcing Northwest Indian College’s New Logo
As part of the College’s 40th anniversary celebration this year, we held an open call for submissions for a new NWIC logo in August. Last week, we sent out a poll and asked students, faculty and staff to select the design that they felt best represents NWIC and makes them feel proud to be a member of the NWIC community. The result of the poll was shared with the College’s Board of Trustees, who then discussed and approved the selected logo, making the design the new official logo of NWIC. The logo was revealed at the President’s Hy’shqe Gala on Sat. Sept. 9, and then earlier this week at the all-staff welcome/pre-service meeting.
We are very excited to share with you this new logo, designed by Squaxin Island artist Taylor Krise. About this design, Taylor says: “This Salish art piece is a testament to the deep reverence and spiritual connection that the Salish people have with the eagle. It invites the viewer to contemplate the eagle’s symbolism of strength, wisdom, and transcendence, while celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Salish culture.” A big thanks to Taylor for sharing his talents with us.
In addition to all the artists who submitted, we want to thank and acknowledge the previous logo artists — King Cyril LaClair who made the original College logo, and Sean Brown who made the logo the College has used since 2009. Their work served the College well over the years and we are very grateful to them.
Join us in celebrating this next chapter in NWIC history, looking toward the next 40 years and beyond!
About the Artist: Taylor Wily Krise is a resilient and inspiring Native American Artist from the Squaxin Island Tribe. Taylor is a Salish artist whose life journey has been marked by numerous trials and tribulations. Rising above the challenges of a troubled childhood and battling addiction to drugs and alcohol, Taylor has emerged as a beacon of hope and strength, breaking the chains that once held him captive and paving the way for future generations.
Taylor’s artistic journey began when he was young, in foster homes where he was fortunate enough to be apprenticed by a sought-after and renown artist whose guidance and mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic skills. Additionally, Taylor has had the privilege of learning from masterful artists within various Tribal communities, enriching his understanding of Indigenous art forms and cultural traditions.
Through Taylor’s artwork, he pours his heart and soul, channeling his personal experiences and triumphs into every piece. His creations serve as a reflection of his journey, conveying resilience, healing, and the power of transformation. Taylor’s art is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity.
Taylor’s deep connection to his Salish heritage is evident in his work, which draws inspiration from the stories, vibrant traditions, puget sound animals, sacred landscapes and ancestral wisdom of his people. By infusing contemporary elements with traditional techniques, Taylor’s art bridges the gap between past and present, reminding viewers of the timeless beauty and resilience of Salish culture.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Taylor is an advocate for change, using his own story of triumph over addiction to inspire others facing similar struggles. He actively engage with his community, offering support, guidance, and hope to those in need. Taylor’s dedication to breaking the cycle of addiction and creating a brighter future for future generations is a testament to his strength and determination.Through Taylor’s art and personal journey, he serves as an inspiration to others, proving that despite the challenges life presents, it is possible to overcome adversity and forge a path of healing and transformation. His story is a reminder that with resilience, perseverance, and the power of art, one can break free from the chains of the past and become a catalyst for positive change.
