Andrea M Wilbur-Sigo

Andrea Wilbur-Sigo, a proud member of the Squaxin Island Tribe and the SteChess family, was born in 1975 in Shelton, Washington, where she continues to live and create. With a lineage steeped in rich cultural history, Andrea is the granddaughter of Bert and Arline Wilbur, the great-granddaughter of Andrew and Betty Peterson, and the great-great-granddaughter of Henry and Alice Allen. Her great-great-grandfather Henry was a pivotal cultural informant for ethnographic studies of the Twana and Salish people.

Andrea holds the distinction of being the first known Native woman carver in a long line of master carvers. Her childhood was immersed in a world of creativity, where she first explored beadwork before mastering an impressive range of Coast Salish art forms. These include bentwood boxes, welcome figures, house posts, masks, panels, button blankets, intricate weaving, and basketry.

Her artistic journey began at the tender age of three, guided by the wisdom and support of her elders, including Kia Louisa Pulsifer, Emily and Georgie Miller, her great-grandfather Andrew Peterson, and her grandfather Bert Wilbur. Andrea’s craft has been further refined through collaborations with renowned master carvers like Loren White, Susan Point, Pete Peterson, Joe and George David, and Dempsey Bob.

Andrea's talent quickly gained recognition. In 1997, she held her first art show, and by 1998, she earned 1st place and Honorable Mention at the First Annual Indian Art Northwest show in Portland, Oregon. From there, her winning streak continued as she placed in every show she entered.

One of her most notable achievements came in 2006 when she debuted at the prestigious Heard Museum Show, securing first place in her division. That same year, Andrea also won Best of Show and People's Choice at the inaugural Native Art Show at the Tacoma History Museum. In 2007, she took home the People’s Choice Award again at the second annual event

In 2016, Andrea attended the International Salish Wool Weavers Symposium in Suquamish, Washington, where she won 1st place and People’s Choice for a fully twined blanket made in honor of her daughter's graduation.

A dedicated member of her tribe, Andrea not only contributes her artwork to various community events but also teaches Coast Salish art to both children and adults across local tribes. Her passion for preserving and sharing her cultural heritage continues to inspire future generations of artists.

Cedar Tree has always known its future she was just waiting for my hands to help her become what she is today… T