Peterson has been instrumental in the revitalization of Coast Salish artwork. “I really never dreamed this would be possible in my lifetime, to be honest,” he said.
He has several commissions for the new casino. Peterson works with many mediums such as glass, digital media, metal and wood.
He was raised in Tacoma, and has been a practicing professional artist since 1996. He received that name, which belonged to his great-grandfather, in 2005. Puyallup Tribal member Shaun Peterson’s native name is Qwalsius. This is the first in a series to showcase the new casino’s art installations.
Most of the artists are working on numerous pieces. The Puyallup Tribal Council and Emerald Queen Casino management wanted patrons to experience the tribe’s rich heritage and pay tribute to its ancestors, so there was a call to artists through the Puyallup Tribe’s Historic Preservation Department.Ībout five tribal members were selected to adorn the casino with both traditional and contemporary Coast Salish artwork throughout. Inside the nearly 300,000-square-foot Emerald Queen Casino, which is set to open soon, you will have a chance to see and feel the Puyallup culture in a variety of ways, including traditional and contemporary designs on etched windows, wall murals, lighting fixtures and drink coasters. By Kate Manzanares, Puyallup Tribal member
