Successful Journey

Joseph Wilson, British Columbia

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This installation is a celebration of the struggles, successes and dedication of all those who participate and advocate for the preservation and enhancement of the commercial and recreational fishery in the waters of British Columbia.

The salmon has been at the heart of the life of the Coast Salish people throughout their history. The salmon has provided food, work, spiritual inspiration and powerful stories. Those of First Nations ancestry have a tradition continuing today of working within the formal fishing industry of British Columbia and of pursuing their traditional fishing rights for themselves and their communities.

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Artist Bio

Coast Salish artist Joseph M. Wilson (Sxwaset) was born in 1967 and raised at Koksilah near Duncan on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Joe's keen interest in Native Art began at the early age of 12, while watching his stepfather, Johnny Sampson, designing and carving beautiful works. However, sibling competition with his younger brother, Rick, spurred his need to take on his artistry seriously. "That's when I started really applying myself. Even back then I had it in my heart to be one of the best out there in our field and I did it."

Joe has studied Coast Salish Art extensively and has emerged as one of the most prolific Coast Salish artists today. He has apprenticed under master carvers such as the late Simon Charlie, Coast Salish artist Charles Elliott, and the Nuu-Chah-nulth master carver Tim Paul at the Royal British Columbia Museum. He was also greatly influenced by the work of the late Art Thompson.

A soft-spoken man, his work speaks of confidence and strength as he continues to develop a unique and original style. His colours are bold and unconventional, yet extremely appealing and rich. Joe's artwork is not only traditionally authentic; it is also an artistic communication link between cultures.

With future generations in mind, Joseph Wilson is also a very active member of the Hul'qumi'num speaking Cowichan Tribes. He is a passionate advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness, and is on the board of directors for Kw-am-Kw'um-S'uli, (Strengthening our Spirit), an Aboriginal group supporting all people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C.

He is pleased to be collaborating on this work for the Convention Centre with his first "rival," brother Richard Wilson.

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Successful Journey

Joseph Wilson, British Columbia

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