Joe David

Joe David, Nuu-chah-nulth (Nootka) artist (b at Opitsat, BC 1946). A member of the Clayoquot Band, Joe David is a leading figure in modern Northwest Coast Indigenous Art. Inspired by the arts of the Clayoquot people from childhood, and in particular by his father Hyacinth David, Sr, a carver and painter, he studied in Seattle and apprenticed with Duane Pasco, a non-Indigenous Northwest Coast artist.

In later years his cousin Ron Hamilton (Hupquatchew) inspired him to take an interest in all aspects of his culture. David's works are found in international public and private collections, including the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Royal British Columbia Museum and the UBC Museum of Anthropology. A carver of exquisite poles and masks, an accomplished singer and dancer in Nuu-chah-nulth ceremonial occasions, Joe David is also known for his innovative serigraphs (silk screen prints).