Description
Book Synopsis: A stunning tribute to the art and life of one of the greatest Indigenous carvers of the last fifty years. Born in 1955 on Village Island, Kingcome Inlet, British Columbia, Beau Dick was a Kwakwaka’wakw artist, activist, and teacher. He lived and worked in Alert Bay. Although foremost an artist, Dick was actively engaged in all aspects of Kwakwaka'wakw culture: studying and revivifying the traditions of carving, dancing, and storytelling.
From the age of fourteen Dick trained with his grandfather and father. His skills were further enhanced when he spent a period in Victoria working with his uncle, Henry Hunt. Dick later worked with many other artists, including Tony Hunt, Bill Reid, Robert Davidson, and Doug Cranmer. He was part of a team of carvers working under the direction of Cranmer that recreated the ’Namgis Big House in ’Yalis. Dick’s appreciation for Kwakwaka’wakw heritage inspired him to become involved in ceremony and the Hamatsa society of his nation, and it has both imbued his work with the long traditions of Kwakwaka’wakw culture and embedded it within them.
In 1986, Dick created a transformation mask for Expo '86 which now hangs in the Canadian Museum of History, in Gatineau, Quebec. Beau Dick presents eighty of the artist’s finest masks and contextualizes his work within the Kwakwaka’wakw tradition, while also showing how Dick incorporated contemporary Western influences. Dick’s craftsmanship and artistry have been noted for being strongly influenced by traditional pieces and techniques, but are particularly unique for their incorporation of contemporary and Western influences as well. As noted by artist Roy Arden, many of Dick’s designs “remind [me] of Japanese anime characters and commercial Halloween masks… An influence from a European painting, or a Japanese Noh mask, are equally likely to inflect on one of his works.”
In 2012, Dick received the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Foundation’s VIVA Award for Visual Arts. In 2014, Beau was Artist in Residence at University of British Columbia. He died in February 2017 at the age of 61.
Details
Experience the remarkable artistry and profound legacy of Beau Dick, one of the most influential Indigenous carvers of our time. Dive into the captivating world of Kwakwaka’wakw culture as you embark on a journey through his legendary creations. From his early training with renowned artists to his stunning transformation mask showcased at Expo '86, Beau Dick pushed the boundaries and infused contemporary Western influences into the traditional crafts he cherished. Immerse yourself in his masterpieces and feel the powerful spirit of his art come alive.
Discover the intricate craftsmanship that sets Beau Dick apart as a true visionary. His masks speak volumes, incorporating age-old techniques passed down through generations of his people. But what makes his work truly exceptional is the fusion of traditional and modern influences. From Japanese anime characters to European paintings, Beau Dick's masks are a vibrant celebration of diverse artistic influences. As acclaimed artist Roy Arden observes, his creations are a mesmerizing blend of ancestral heritage and contemporary flair.
Celebrate the everlasting legacy of Beau Dick, a man whose deep reverence for Kwakwaka’wakw heritage is brilliantly reflected in his art. Each page of Beau Dick: Revolutionary Spirit takes you on a profound exploration of his life's work. Through eighty exquisite masks, this book honors his rich artistic contributions while deepening your understanding of Kwakwaka’wakw traditions. Immerse yourself in a captivating tale, steeped in culture, passion, and the relentless spirit of creativity.
Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of Indigenous history. Experience the transformative power of Beau Dick's art for yourself. Order your copy of Beau Dick: Revolutionary Spirit today and embark on an illuminating journey that will forever change the way you perceive Indigenous art.
Order now and witness the extraordinary legacy of a true art revolutionary.
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