INDIGENOUS ART
Patrick Amos
Born into the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, Patrick Amos is a renowned indigenous artist who is celebrated for his exceptional talent in woodcarving.
Raised in the picturesque setting of Friendly Cove, his artistic journey began after attending a residential school on Meares Island. In the vibrant artistic community of Victoria, Amos found inspiration and began crafting designs for limited-edition prints in 1976. His passion for woodcarving led him to apprentice under Kwakwaka’wakw artist Tony Hunt Sr. in 1979, followed by collaboration with Nuu-chah-nulth artist Tim Paul at the Royal British Columbia Museum.
Since his debut solo exhibition in 1991, Amos has captivated audiences with his intricate designs and dedication to preserving indigenous art and traditions. His portfolio boasts diverse works, including masks, totem poles, sculptures, bowls, rattles, and limited-edition prints. Amos’s art reflects a deep reverence for his cultural heritage, incorporating symbols and motifs passed down through generations.
Beyond his artistic endeavours, Patrick Amos is a cultural ambassador, sharing the rich history and traditions of the Nuu-chah-nulth people through his work. His contributions to the art world extend beyond Canada, with exhibitions and commissions reaching international audiences. With each creation, Amos continues to inspire and influence both emerging and established artists, ensuring the enduring legacy of Nuu-chah-nulth artistry for generations to come.
INDIGENOUS ART
Sanford Williams
Ahtsik-sta Qwayachiik (English Name: Sanford Williams) has made it his life’s work, creating art that echoes the past of the First Nations folk of British Columbia.
Born and raised on the west coast of Vancouver Island in the remote village of Yuquot, Ahtsik-sta was inspired by his relatives, notably his uncle – the late Chief Dominic Andrew. After surviving residential school, Qwayachiik graduated in 1985 and attended the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art at ‘Ksan in Old Hazelton, BC. Since completing the course in 1988, Ahtsik-sta Qwayachiik has worked independently as a Master Carver daily.
Throughout the years, he has proudly participated in many events and has donated pieces to many noteworthy organizations, including:
• Bill Reid Gallery, Vancouver BC
• Sanyi International Wood Sculpture Festival, Taiwan
• The Canucks for Kids Fund, Vancouver BC
• Wilp Si-Satxw Healing Centre, Kitwanga BC
• Gitxsan Wet’suwet’en Tribal Council for the Land Claim, Kitwanga BC
• Royal BC Museum, Victoria BC
Once described as “the real deal”, Ahtsik-sta still carves authentic pieces from his remote, beachfront shop using handmade materials and is accessible from his off-season home in the Fraser Valley.
Though his art has been found in dozens of galleries around British Columbia, Ahtsik-sta Qwayachiik is a people’s artist and loves meeting the public to carve custom-made pieces for them.