Cliff Wilson

Thunderbird

Red Cedar with copper and abalone inlay

This piece reflects the artists desire to create a piece that was asymmetrical – contrary to traditional Native art. There is also an Egyptian influence in this piece that is shown by the stance of the Thunderbird’s head.

Contact Cliff for commissions.



Cliff Wilson was born and raised in Port Alberni. As a child, he grew up in a humble environment and was surrounded by Native artists. Cliff spent many hours watching them carve and was intrigued by the art. The desire to carve at this time was just a flicker of a spark that later became a burning flame.

During this time, an elderly Native carver sensed the deep yearning in the young boy’s heart and patiently taught him the basics. With his help, Cliff proudly completed his first carving at the tender age of eight.

The completed totem pole impressed Cliff’s grandmother and she purchased it from him for twenty dollars. She told him she would return it to him when he was older and each time Cliff visited his grandmother, the totem was a constant reminder of what he had accomplished.

Cliff has been working towards completing a collection of work that will fully express his creative ability. Through the process he has continually honed his skills and developed his own identity and distinct style through his art.

Cliff’s carvings display his own creative interpretation, reflecting a fresh and unique artistic perspective. His passion to create continues to flow as he looks forward to works yet to evolve.

If you are interested in a particular piece, it would be available on a commission basis unless otherwise noted. For more information or to let us know what you think, please contact Cliff at

250-468-7301
email: wilsoncd@shaw.ca

If you've enjoyed seeing Cliff's art, we'd love to hear your comments.

Feather

Red cedar with copper and abalone inlay.


Contact Cliff for details and pricing.

Paternal Whale Feast Bowl
Red cedar with abalone and copper inlay

This is the father of the group of whale carvings.
This piece garnered First Place and Best in the Division at the Brant Festival in 1996.


Available through commission.
Contact the artist for details and pricing

"Juvenile"

The baby of the group of whale carvings.

Yellow cedar with copper and abalone inlay.

Available through commission.
Contact Cliff for details and pricing.

Dorsal Fin

Red cedar with copper and abalone inlay

Available by commission.
Contact the artisit for more details and pricing.