Today we’re sitting down with Bill Pfeifer, Jr. (Wéidaaká Yóodóohaa) to talk about his Formline Evolved art series, and experience with Seattle Restored! He has been doing Tlingit formline and graphic design for more than 25 years. Now he is making his art available for the general public for the first time, starting in 2024.
Q: Tell us about your artistic focus. where do you draw inspiration from?
My artistic focus centers on formline art, a traditional style of the Tlingit people and other Indigenous cultures of the Northwest Coast. I draw inspiration from the rich traditions of my Tlingit heritage, especially the stories, symbols, and cultural practices passed down through generations. My father, also an artist, has been a significant influence, teaching me the fundamentals of this art form. I also, love skateboarding, graffiti, synthwave, and anime, so they all play a part in my artistic creations. Through my work, I aim to bridge the gap between tradition and contemporary expression, keeping these ancient stories alive while making them relevant to today’s audience.
Q: Why did you apply for Seattle Restored? how will this opportunity help you reach your goals?
I applied for Seattle Restored because it represents an incredible opportunity to bring my unique blend of traditional Tlingit art and contemporary influences to a broader audience. My goals include not only growing as an artist but also sharing the rich narratives and cultural knowledge embedded in my work. This initiative will allow me to connect with the community, foster appreciation for Indigenous art forms, and inspire future generations through cultural storytelling.
The window installations capture the attention of people strolling through downtown Seattle, creating an accessible platform for cultural exchange. As an artist, this opportunity aligns with my aim to foster appreciation for Indigenous art forms and inspire future generations through cultural storytelling.
Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR CONNECTION TO THE SEATTLE ART SCENE. WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES AND WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST ABOUT CREATING ART IN SEATTLE?
I’ve built a meaningful connection with the Seattle art scene through art installations and murals. Seattle has a vibrant community that celebrates diversity and innovation. One challenge is standing out in a city brimming with talent from various backgrounds and genres. However, this challenge pushes me to refine my craft and find unique ways to share my cultural heritage. What I value most about creating art in Seattle is the community’s openness to exploring and appreciating diverse perspectives. It’s a place where traditional and contemporary forms can intersect, offering endless opportunities for creativity and growth.
Q: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU OR YOUR ART?
Being born and raised in Ketchikan, Alaska, and deeply rooted in the Tlingit tribe, I’ve always been immersed in cultural traditions. My journey in traditional art really took hold with learning to carve under the guidance of master carver Nathan Jackson, a world-renowned Tlingit artist. This tradition is something I cherish and hope to pass on to the next generation. The birth of my son reignited my passion for art; wanting to surround him with our cultural heritage, I started creating watercolor Tlingit pieces. The positive response from making these works public has propelled me into a professional art career, through which I aim to inspire my son and others to embrace our culture.
Q: Do you have any events or collaborations coming up?
This summer, I’ll be at the Summer Native Arts event at Evergreen State College‘s Longhouse, followed by an appearance at the Tumwater Falls Festival. Recently, I did a pop-up for the Pacific Northwest Ballet’s “Sleeping Beauty,” featuring Northwest-inspired Tlingit designs. For those interested in prints or stickers, these pop-ups are a great chance to connect directly.
I’m also collaborating with ArtZowie, a new art initiative in Seattle’s Georgetown district, offering menu-style art experiences. I’ll be providing instruction on authentic Northwest Coast art, where participants can paint their own cedar panel plaques with traditional Tlingit formline designs. These experiences are planned to be offered quarterly in Seattle. My hope is by teaching the formline design I can foster a deeper appreciation for the culture and artform of the Northern Northwest Coast.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to locals, what would it be?
My advice to locals is to deeply embrace the rich cultural tapestry that Seattle offers. Dive into the stories and traditions of the diverse communities around you. Connect with your own roots and heritage, and share that with others. By celebrating our cultural identities and learning from one another, we enrich the fabric of our community and inspire future generations.
Q: What’s your favorite Seattle Restored activation, and why?
Danger! High Voltage by KT Hancock was particularly captivating to me. As an amazing glass artist from the Seattle area, her installation featuring neon tubes resonated deeply. It reflected a vibrant aesthetic that I draw inspiration from, though I lack her skill in neon tubing and lighting. Her work with metalworking is equally impressive, building frames that encase her glass sculptures, creating a sense of entrapment and liberation. It’s her creativity and execution that I admire most, and her art never fails to inspire.
Q: Where would you take visitors or a group of friends for a fun, relaxed experience in Seattle?
For a fun, relaxed experience in Seattle, I love longboarding at Alki Beach and renting roller skates from a cool shop across the water from Seattle proper. The Seattle Aquarium, located right on the pier, offers an amazing marine experience. The waterfront has been revitalized with new walkways overlooking the water and piers, and it’s home to cool artists in the summertime. With all the new walkways and art installations, a stroll around downtown, taking in the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the buzz of Pike Place Market, offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and the tranquility of the ocean.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?
In the coming year, I’m most excited about the opportunities to connect with my family, community, and audience through meaningful experiences. Summer holds special significance for my family as we plan road trips and hikes, including a visit to the Southwest to honor my wife’s heritage. Engaging with local powwows is another highlight, as I’m hoping to get my sons set up with regalia so they can participate in the dances, further deepening their connection to cultural traditions.
I’m also looking forward to a series of pop-ups where I’ll share my Tlingit culture through art displays and instruction. These events will provide a platform to foster greater understanding and celebrate cultural heritage. A collaboration with a Tlingit rap group is another exciting project I’m working on, blending music and visuals in dynamic ways. My brother’s Alaskan business will be featuring my art in special releases, helping me reach new audiences and building connections. Additionally, I’m exploring creative ventures like an online comic series and a potential video game, blending storytelling and art to connect with people in innovative ways. Overall, I’m excited to contribute to the community, celebrate my roots, and create experiences that bring people together.
vISIT FORMLINE EVOLVED
Address:
1501 5th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
Open hours: Window Art Installation – Viewable Anytime
Dates: December 15, 2024 – June 15, 2025
The post Formline Evolved: Participant spotlight on Bill Pfeifer, Jr. appeared first on Seattle Restored.