Dave Jacobson

Dave Jacobson was born in Alert Bay, British Columbia, as the second of three boys and seven sisters. He has lived most of his life at Fort Rupert, BC; Dave was mainly inspired by his great grandfather Mungo Martin, his grandmother, Lucy Nelson (maiden name Martin), his father Larry Jacobson, as well as by his great uncle, Herbert Martin.

As a four year old Dave was taught the rhythm and beat to the "Hamatsa" (Wild man Dance) while his great Uncle Herbert sang the lyrics. As a child he often visited Willie Seaweed, to watch him carve, and Tom Johnson (his great Uncle), to practice dancing wearing the traditional dance masks. These lasting experiences inspired Dave to initially focus on the carving of ceremonial dance masks. After completing a two-year Fine Arts Diploma Program at North Island College in Courtenay BC,

Dave has acquired a wide variety of artistic techniques that he is using to innovate Kwawaka'wakw Art as well as further develop his very unique personal style. Dave received his first private commission order for a forty-three feet high totem pole more than ten years ago

In 1997 He was one of five people responsible for the construction of a 45-foot west coast style war canoe that hadn't been in existence for the last two hundred years. He participated in Tribal Journeys and paddled in the canoe to the opening of the Indigenous Games held in Victoria, BC. Dave also just recently participated in Tribal Journeys to start the Healing Conference for Residential Schools and commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Return of the Potlatch in Lower Squamish, BC.

Dave's vision is to start a school that will pass on Kwakwaka'wakw Art and Culture, as well as the skills needed to further develop and innovate this vibrant gift to coming generations.