2. Ka-in (1978)

Joe was born in the village of Opitsat on Meares Island in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia. One of a large family that moved frequently, including a stop in Seattle, Washington, Joe studied fine art in Texas before witnessing the early developments of the modern Northwest Coast art movement. He has effortlessly blended Northwest Coast and his own Nuu-chah-nulth art with other cultural influences. One of the first artists to visit the Māori and begin a cross-cultural dialogue, he also makes a yearly pilgrimage to the American Southwest to participate in the Sun Dance Ceremony. His interest in shamanism, spiritual healing and traditional practices has become a quest and has led him to journey around the world. He has been included in most exhibitions, collections and publications on contemporary Northwest Coast art; as well, he has produced numerous commissioned pieces and participated in events and causes related to protecting the environment.

—excerpt from Manawa—Pacific Heartbeat

©2005 Spirit Wrestler Gallery