Quinn James

Quinn is a Kwakwaka’wakw carver whose practice is deeply rooted in family tradition and cultural continuity. Named after the glacier Quineesh (white whale) that saved the people from the great flood. Taught by his father Simon Dick and guided by his uncle, the late master carver Beau Dick, Quinn has attended potlatches and danced in ceremonies since childhood. He has danced the Peace Dance and the Raven Transformation, experiences that shape his understanding of how ceremonial pieces come to life.

In addition to creating functional ceremonial masks, Quinn has worked on numerous totem poles and canoes. His work combines traditional forms with a contemporary sensibility, always respecting the cultural protocols of what his lineage is entitled to carve and perform.

For Quinn, carving is a way of carrying cultural knowledge forward to future generations, ensuring these traditions remain active and alive. He’s excited to share his journey and his carvings with the community through this gallery feature and hopes you’ll enjoy discovering the stories behind each piece.

Quinn is also an Army veteran who finds balance, peace, and a sense of freedom through his art.

He is currently collaborating with watchmakers and cloisonné coin artisans on a series of limited-edition pieces to be showcased at the Vancouver Timepiece Show.