Joe David facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joe David
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| Born | June 30, 1946 |
| Known for | carver, printmaker |
| Movement | Northwest Coast art |
Joe David was born on June 30, 1946. He is a talented Nuu-chah-nulth artist. He belongs to the Tla-o-qui-aht Band of the Nuu-chah-nulth people. He was also welcomed into the Haida people as an adopted member.
Joe David is known for his amazing Northwest Coast art. This art style is very important to the Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest. He works with other famous artists like Bill Holm and Duane Pasco. His cousin, Ron Hamilton, is also an artist. Besides art, Joe David sings traditional Nuu-chah-nulth songs. He is also very interested in shamanic traditions from different cultures.
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Joe David's Early Life and Learning
Joe David grew up in a village called Opitsaht. This village is on Meares Island, near Vancouver Island in British Columbia. His father, Hyacinth David, was an elder of the Clayoquot Nation. He taught Joe a lot about his culture and heritage.
As a child, Joe went to a mission boarding school. He often visited the school's chapel. He noticed that the carved altar there was similar to his people's artwork. Both inspired a feeling of wonder and respect.
How Joe David Became an Artist
Joe David studied art in the Job Corps program. He also went to art schools in San Marcos, Texas and Seattle. For a short time, he worked as a commercial artist. He even worked for a department store called The Bon Marché.
In 1969, something special happened. He visited the Burke Museum. There, he saw a collection of Northwest Native art. Bill Holm had put this collection together. Joe was amazed by it. He felt a strong desire to learn and master this art. In 1971, he met Duane Pasco. Duane encouraged Joe to explore two-dimensional art and new styles.
Joe David's Artwork and Style
Joe David was one of the first artists to use serigraphy for traditional Northwest Coast designs. Serigraphy is a type of printmaking. He also carves large totem poles. In a 1981 film called "Spirit of the Mask," Joe shared his love for wood and his carving tools.
He enjoys many different art styles. He is interested in his own traditions and modern North American culture. He also explores other Native American traditions. For example, he takes part in a Sun Dance every year in the southwestern United States. He also finds inspiration in Maori art from New Zealand.
Joe David believes that traditional cultures can change and grow. He once said that his people have always been comfortable with change. He wants his art to celebrate a living culture, not just the past.
Where to See Joe David's Art
You can find Joe David's artwork in important art collections. Some of his pieces are at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Others are at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC in Vancouver.
