MEET THE ARTIST
The Artist Behind the Tribal Heritage Debit Card
Art can tell a story, carry tradition, and connect people to place.
For Oregon artist Erin Case, those connections are at the heart of his work—and the design he created for Central Willamette Credit Union’s Tribal Heritage Debit Card.
Based in Willamina, Erin is a contemporary Native American artist whose paintings and public art draw on his heritage, Indigenous designs of the Pacific Northwest, and the communities that shape his work.
The Story Behind the Design
For the Tribal Heritage Debit Card, Erin chose the Sturgeon Back Design, a design connected to the Pacific Northwest Coast.
In Erin’s interpretation, the design represents depth, strength, wisdom, and endurance. It reflects the sturgeon’s protective armor and life-sustaining role, connecting the artwork to the ancient history and rich ecosystems of the region’s waters.
The card also features an image of Selene Rilatos. To Erin, her profile reflects the strength, beauty, and grace of Native American women, and the important political, spiritual, and familial roles they hold within their communities.
Together, these elements tell a story of cultural connection, resilience, and living traditions.
“The image is far more than just an image. It’s a story.”
— Erin Case, on the image he selected for the card
Rooted in Heritage
Erin works primarily with acrylic on leather, canvas, and wood. Distinctive basket cap designs appear throughout his work, alongside influences from his Ojibwe roots in Rocky Boy, Montana.
An enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Erin also has deep roots in Grand Ronde, Modoc, and Yakama heritage, as well as Ojibwe heritage connected to the Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy Reservation.
His creativity extends beyond the canvas. As a muralist and public artist, Erin creates work ranging from small interior pieces to large outdoor murals.
His art can be found throughout Oregon, including at Painted Horse Recovery facilities and the Siletz Clinic, “The North Doctors Place,” in Lincoln City. His work in Philomath explores the connection between the community, the land, and the Indigenous peoples of the area.
Follow Erin’s Work:
Art that Connects. Giving That Supports.
The Tribal Heritage Debit Card brings Erin’s artwork into everyday life while helping support Indigenous-led nonprofit organizations in Oregon.
Each time you use the card, Central Willamette Credit Union makes a donation to support their work.