Native Northwest was founded nearly four decades ago with the goal of building everyday connection to Indigenous cultures. Today, their product catalog showcases an expansive variety of art by dozens of Indigenous artists with an array of cultural affiliations.
Operating from Musqueam, Coast Salish territory in Vancouver, British Columbia, the company prints their postcards in full color on medium-thick cardstock, with glossy coatings on the front to highlight each piece’s vibrant colors, and matte backs for easy writing. The backs include the artist’s name and tribal affiliation(s); title or subject of the art; and a quote from the artist explaining the significance of the work or subject. The right side includes five address lines and a barcode in the stamp space.
At just over the standard US postcard length due to differences in standard Canadian postcard dimensions, these cards technically require a letter stamp in the US (but they may slide through with just a postcard stamp in a pinch).
From the publisher: “Authenticity of art, design, and culture is the foundation to our mission of building everyday connection to Indigenous cultures. Native Northwest products are guided by the following five principles:
1. 100% of the art featured on every Native Northwest product is designed by Indigenous artists.
2. All artists have provided consent and contractual permission for their art to be featured on Native Northwest products.
3. Artist names are acknowledged on all product packaging.
4. Cultural traditions are honoured by acknowledging cultural affiliation on product packaging.
5. Artists are paid in fees and royalties.”
Size: 4.25” x 6.25”
Weight: 4 g
Artist: Maynard Johnny Jr.
Publisher: Native Northwest
Made in: Canada
Postage required: Letter stamp