In the fall of 1996, Gordon started scouting out a location on the Pacific Rim Highway of the Tseshaht Reserve. He envisioned a studio Gallery. He had one set of plans drawn up to prepare for his storefront. Waiting for the right time… Then in 2007, he was prepared to start his venture. The time was right. He was accepted, with full support for a business loan from the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) in the new year of 2008.
The day the loan was approved, he took initiative and started falling trees to clear the lot. In this highly visible location people saw and began wondering about the new construction happening. Many regular highway travelers watched the progress of construction. From the trees fallen, Gordon milled the wood to be used in the construction.
The business name Ahtsik symbolizes Gordon's creativity and love for art. He is Nuu-chah-nulth from the Tsheshaht tribe on the West Coast of Vancouver Island where he grew up and still resides. At an early age, Gordon was taught traditional teachings and values from his grandparents, Alan and Agnes Dick. It was from these stories and teachings from family that Gordon's artistic vision was born.
