Peter Smith

petesmith.jpg (52628 bytes)Peter Smith is a Kwakwaka'wakw artist that was born in Vancouver, 1972. He has been carving since 1995. Peter has studied under the watchful eyes of master carvers Simon Dick and Simon James, developing a style of his own in the traditional way of his people. His Indian name is Giq-Kalas, which translates as "Sons Of Great Importance". He grew up learning the cultural traditions and meanings behind the masks as well as the songs that go with them. Peter has been a traditional singer and dancer for several years, in fact since the age of four he has taken part in the potlatch ceremonies. Although focusing on the culture of the Kwakwaka'wakw people, Peter has also been influenced by northwest coast silver jewelry. Sonija Triebwasser, a well known silver-smith, taught Peter this art form. Peter's future plans are to travel and share with the world that we, as native people, are continuing and practicing our culture.

Peter has been involved in several events in his career,

Young Bloods - An art show at the Douglas Reynolds Gallery focusing on young up and coming northwest artists, 1998

Down From The Shimmering Skies - Vancouver Art Gallery, 1998
                                                                         - Portland Art Gallery, 1999
                                                                         - Southwest Museum, Los Angeles, 2000

Coghlan Collection 2000 - Stonington Gallery, Seattle, 2000

psbukwus.jpg (26260 bytes)
Bukwus by Peter Smith

 

 

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copyright Coghlan Art - 2001