
Story Pole is a 35-minute documentary that follows the remarkable story of Jason LaClair, a Native American artist from the Pacific Northwest, as he restores a story pole started by an elder from his community, Samuel Cagey II. The film is a reflection on his life as he recovers from drug addiction, and finds healing in his art and community. His journey leads him into the public school district, where he teaches young people about his people’s history, art and healing.
Guided by respected Lummi elder, Samuel Cagey’s teachings and personal stories, Jason learns the deeper meaning behind cedar carving and integrates these lessons into his own work.
The completed story pole becomes a symbol of connection, respect, and unity, carrying the stories of animals, water, and creation, reminding us of our shared purpose and interconnectedness.









Story Pole is a moving tribute to
indigenous culture
finding community, and the enduring power of traditional teachings.
It is a story of learning, respect, and the bonds that unite us all, filmed on the sacred land of Lummi Nation and in the heart of Bellingham, Washington. As indigenous values and teachings are brought into communities who are still finding out native Americans still practice their traditional teachings of carving and painting coast salish art.
In Story Pole, Jason Laclair follows the teachings of Samuel Cagey II, not only learning how to carve but how this traditional teachings of gratitude and working with the community build ever lasting relationships.
FILM CREW
CHARACTERS

Story Pole follows the inspiring journey of Jason LaClair, a Native American artist from the Pacific Northwest, as he completes unfinished carved story pole begun by an elder from his community. This deeply personal film not only chronicles Jason’s transformative journey of recovery from drug addiction, but it also explores the powerful healing connection between art, culture, and community. The restoration of the story pole becomes a metaphor for Jason’s own life—rebuilding himself through his art, reconnecting with his roots, and finding redemption through the strength of his heritage.
As Jason works to bring the pole back to life, he reflects on his own path to sobriety. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of culture. Throughout his recovery, Jason’s connection to his community deepens, especially as he starts teaching local students about his people’s history, art, and the importance of healing. His lessons go beyond artistic technique—they are rooted in the values of tradition, respect, and recovery. In teaching the next generation, Jason finds purpose and a deeper sense of connection to both his culture and his community.
The film also highlights Jason’s collaboration with local schools, particularly within the Bellingham School District, where he introduces students to Native American culture and the role of art in healing. Through these collaborations, the film advocates for the integration of Native American teachings and art into the public school curriculum, as well as the importance of ensuring that more Native American art is displayed in public spaces.
Through his story, Story Pole aims to achieve several key goals:
Advocate for the funding and integration of the STI Mandate curriculum, which emphasizes Native American history and culture in schools.
Inspire and encourage those in recovery from substance use disorder to continue their journey toward healing, while also motivating those still struggling to seek treatment.
Foster the recognition and incorporation of more Native American art in public spaces, enriching the cultural landscape for everyone.
Strengthen the connections between Native American communities, public schools, healthcare providers, and social services to create a more supportive, healing environment for all.
Story Pole is a film about resilience, healing, and the power of cultural traditions to bring about personal and community transformation. It reminds us that, like the story pole itself, we too can be rebuilt, restored, and made whole again through connection, understanding, and the support of our community.
FILM SYNOPSIS
