Spring 2013 Newsletter

Our Spring 2013 Newsletter is now available online and in the gallery. Featured this season is Kwakwaka'wakw artist Richard Sumner, who is well-known for his beautifully made bentwood boxes. We also have new works by young Haida artists Jing (Rob Long) and Sgwaayaans (TJ Young), who are both apprenticing with renowned Haida artist Robert Davidson. Lastly, we are excited to announce a show featuring collaborative and individual pieces by Kwakwaka'wakw artists and brothers, Rod and Steve Smith. A reception will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2013 from 4pm-7pm to celebrate the opening and National Aboriginal Day- save the date!

Click here to read more from our Spring 2013 Newsletter.

Red Cedar Masks by TJ Young

Haida artist TJ Young was introduced to his cultural heritage and practices by his Grandfather Claude Morrison, who taught him how to carve halibut-hooks when he was just a teenager. Today, TJ has been carving large-scale totem poles and masks, two of which can currently be found in the gallery.

Above left is his newest red cedar portrait mask, entitled Northern Lights, with dimensions 15" x 9" x 7". The addition of birch bark and operculum shell complements the simplicity of the painted design and the grain of the wood. This mask can be viewed on our website and is available for $1,600.00 CAD.

To the right is TJ's red cedar mask Eagle Spirit, with dimensions 16" x 12" x 11". This piece is enhanced by mountain goat fur and painted copper overlays, and is available in the gallery for $1,800.00 CAD.

TJ is also a recent graduate of Vancouver's Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts Program where he studied engraving techniques under Kwakwaka'wakw artist Dan Wallace. A selection of TJ's oxidized sterling silver jewellery can also be found in the gallery. Come take a look at this young artist's creations!