Sunday, July 05, 2009

Art of the Copper Maker - Fort Rupert


We are very fortunate to have visited with Calvin Hunt, master carver, and his "Copper Maker" studio in Fort Rupert. He was so very gracious to explain the process of carving and decorating the canoe he is working on as well as the other art pieces in his studio. He considered to be one of the foremost artists of the Northwest Coast. His First Nations art works, have been sent to places around the globe, such as Germany, Japan, Australia, China, Scotland, and throughout North America.
Check out his web site: http://www.calvinhunt.com/


His colorful workshop is full of the many works of art he is creating.

There are many individual pieces being worked on and will later be assembled on a 40 ft. ceremonial canoe.



A self portrait watches over Calvin's workshop.

The tools of the carver's trade adorn the walls of the workshop.

This glorious "Whale Tale" is a commission from Victoria.

Calvin explains to us his technique for making a dorsal fin to adorn the adorn the canoe he is carving.
This magnificent canoe is waiting for the completion of the bow carving.
The shape of the hull is "Tlingit" in design from Alaska and will be used to race in ceremonial events.
Calvin was adding a mast to this canoe.
A work in process.
A colorful detail on a 22 ft. canoe.

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