Gerry Marks

Born in 1949, Gerry Marks grew up in Vancouver, largely unaware of his Haida artistic traditions. Subsequent to meeting Haida master-artist, Bill Reid and discovering, at the young age of twenty, the fine metalwork of his grandfather, John Marks, he began to focus his energy on understanding this tradition.

In 1971, Gerry studied with Freda Diesing in Prince Rupert and attended the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art; he studied under Alfred Joseph. During his time at Gitanmaax (K’san), Gerry also learned to make his own engraving tools. During his training, he was greatly influenced by Pat Dixon, Francis Williams, Robert Davidson, and Bill Holm.

In 1977, Gerry carved a 25-foot totem pole with Francis Williams, and assisted Robert Davidson in carving the Edenshaw Memorial House front, in Masset. That same year he worked with Peter Page at the Treasures of London Master Craftsmen Workshop, in London.

His first repoussé bracelet was purchased by the Canadian government’s Ministry of Indian Affairs. Gerry has pieces in the Royal BC Museum, the National Museum of Ethnology, and Osaka Museum. His carving style is characterized by precise lines and minute detail — every surface of his pieces are textured and perfectly finished.

Today, Gerry Marks is regarded as one of the finest jewellery artists on the Northwest Coast. His highly abstracted designs with flowing formline and relief carving style are his hallmark.

Spirit Wrestler Gallery