The longhouse’s carved motifs feature Killer Whale, Octopus, and Thunderbird—creatures of universal importance among Coast Salish tribes. Made of old-growth cedar, it is flanked by a series of upright paddles—an homage to the practice of “paddles up,” which signals a desire to land and visit when approaching a community by canoe. Salmon imagery on the paddles acknowledges the historical importance of the fish to Native peoples, as well as the restored habitat and improved connection to Little Bear Creek made possible by Brightwater.

Wilbur-Sigo is a member of the Squaxin Island Tribe and the first documented woman carver in her tribe and family.