Native Mask Art
AN HOMMAGE TO THE NATIVE CARVERS OF THE WEST COAST
“I believe that it is important to be visually and emotionally moved by my work-to capture the strength of the indomitable spirit and to captivate the viewer is always a challenge that I particularly enjoy.”
The natural wonder of the rain forest and totems of the west coast is stimulating and has motivated me to express myself with a subject matter that I find invigorating and exciting. I continue to search through the eyes of the carver for the meanings and spiritual symbolism of the West Coast Masks and their majestic Totems, magnifying my subject matter to create a dynamic impact.
“I have been influenced and inspired by our First People of Canada in many ways – I find it enlightening and spiritually exhilarating when working with subject matter such as the Indomitable Spirit. I depict this journey of the indigenous people of British Columbia through their struggle and their cultural heritage of carving the great masks and totems.”
Paul has always admired the culture and rituals of the west coast natives in Canada. He has had close relations with the famous Chief Dan George’s (Chief of the Tsleil-Waututh) son, Chief Leonard George who is also a collector of Paul’s work, giving him the opportunity to participate in many interesting projects with the Native People of Canada.