These handcrafted copper pendants are created by Dustin McGladrey, a Nisga’a artist from the Northwest Coast, whose work is rooted in both traditional practice and contemporary expression. His copper pieces are inspired by the cultural significance of copper within Northwest Coast Indigenous communities, where it has long been regarded as a symbol of wealth, status, and connection. Each pendant is individually made from copper and may feature a natural ocean-water patina, giving the surface a rich, evolving finish that changes over time with wear. This living quality is part of the material’s character and can be maintained or refreshed using gentle, natural methods. Many pieces are adorned with carefully selected beads, including glass and copper elements, and in some designs, hand-harvested plant materials such as devil’s club—an important plant in many coastal traditions, often associated with protection. No two pendants are exactly alike. Variations in size, patina, and beadwork reflect the artist’s hand and the natural materials used, making each piece a unique expression of Northwest Coast artistry.
