The Artist
"I spent so much time with a paddle in my hand I suppose it was inevitable I would make it my canvas one day.”
Norquay Co. (Nor-ku-way Ko) was founded by artist and female-founder Natasha Wittke as a creative outlet for artistic expression.
The paddle became Natasha’s canvas—an expression of resilience, perseverance, and untapped possibility. This creative journey was sparked by a transformative 600km canoe expedition along the remote Missinaibi River, a voyage that marked the moment she moved beyond the physical limitations once imposed by a congenital heart condition known as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.
What once held her back became the very force that propelled her forward. As a powerful symbol of that transformation, each paddle she designs features a distinct centre line—an intentional, deeply personal element that echoes the scar she now wears with pride.
“The centreline is more than just a visual articulation of my scar; it's my badge of honour. It marks the journey from point A to B—with all the bumps, detours, and winding moments along the way. It represents the river I paddled, portaged, and powered through, and serves as a source of inspiration for those who may doubt themselves today but may find a clearer path to forge tomorrow.
This isn’t just my story—it’s all of ours.”
The centre line stands as a quiet emblem of strength, a lasting reminder that no boundary is insurmountable, and a celebration of the human spirit's ability to endure, evolve, and inspire.
Over the past decade, Natasha has grown the brand into an internationally recognized name, with exhibitions at prestigious events such as the Architectural Digest Design Show in New York, London Design Fair, and the Interior Design Show (IDS) in both Toronto and Vancouver. Her work has earned a Gold award at the European Product Design Awards and has been featured in hundreds of publications and television segments, receiving praise from design enthusiasts and notable figures—including renowned author and canoeist Seth Godin.
Natasha has collaborated with global brands and actively supported numerous environmental non-profits. Notably, in 2022, she partnered with the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) to create a legacy paddle as part of HBC’s Truth and Reconciliation efforts during the historic transfer of its landmark Winnipeg building to the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. This symbolic paddle was gifted to Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and other distinguished leaders.
Bring the journey home with one of Natasha’s collectible art pieces—an iconic Canadian object steeped in history, heritage, and meaning.