Biographies

Artie George

Artie George, great nephew of Chief Dan George, is a Coast Salish woodcarver. Born in North Vancouver in 1970, he is from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation (Burrard Band). Artie began carving at the age of 13 and is mainly self-taught. The relentless dedication that he brings to his art and the quiet grace which accompanies that dedication has awarded Artie respect from his peers as a carver of fine detail.

His miniature masks in the forms of brooches, necklaces, bolo ties, spirit boxes, collectibles and framed shadow boxes are original works of art which have been well received and marketed around the world, providing a fine, esthetic collection. Unique, deeply carved full sized masks, wall plaques, poles, bowls and rattles express Artie's distinctive style.

He participates in aboriginal events and major juried craft shows. His art can be found in collections around the world and also within establishments for the visual arts, such as the world famous Glenbow Museum in Calgary, the UBC museum of Anthropology and the Smithsonian Native American Museum in Washington D.C.

Noted recipients of his work include National Chief Phil Fontaine, Assembly of First Nations (Canada); George Erasmus, Co-Chair of the Royal Commission of Aboriginal Peoples (Canada); Grand Chief Ed John, First Nations Summit (BC); Chief Leonard George, Burrard Band; and the Hon. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India.

Through his art, Artie George expresses visually what his great uncle embodied in the words and deeds of his life; the face of our own humanity, at one with nature and the great spirit within it.

Richard de la Mare

Richard graduated from college with a strong background in Art and Design. The focal point for his creativity turned to jewelry in 1970 and he has since exhibited his work in major juried craft shows, aboriginal events, museums and galleries. Two of Richards "one of a kind" pieces were accepted by the Canadian Crafts Association for exhibition in the Vancouver Museum, awarding Richard 'Master' status in his craft. His creative style is reflected in every aspect of his work.