My life and history

I am a registered Quinault tribal member from the Washington coast. I have been a commercial fisherman and crabber for over 20 years. Being a self taught artist I have learned through my decade long travels on "Tribal Journeys" , lifetime study of museum work and a commitment to continuous improvement. Traveling the entire west coast (USA & Canada) in the traditional way of the canoe has immensely inspired my creations as well as allowed me to study all forms of Coast Salish and West Coast Form Line artwork to construct works at the maximum of my ability. I am passionate about my paintings, carving projects and their history, and I'm excited to share their story's with you.

-Hand pounded Copper Shield necklace by Dena'ina Athabascan tribal (Alaska)  artist Larry McCord

At protocol in my cedar regalia. Hat woven by Elder Lilian Johnstone and vest by her daughter, Tootie James (Master Quinault weavers)

I had the honor of Skippering for the Quinault canoe Chu-up'ah for The 24 day journey (Quinault tribes second longest distance journey)to We-wa'a-kii , Paddle to Campbell River -2017

During Tribal Journeys we are attempting to revive the conditions of our once lost Potlatch Lifestyle. We get up with the tide,  get in the canoe at dawn,  paddle all day on open waters and then sing all night. 

Jamming out with the 1st nations Bros Dwayne and Tommy, Paddle to Campbell river-Tribal Journeys 2017

Hand stacking crab pots , winter 2023. I am a Treaty Rights crabber and a Treaty Rights gillnet fisherman & ground owner. 

Summer King Salmon fishing on the Quinault River. 2014.  my fishing ground has been handed down 4 generations it once belonged to my Grandma Jesse Curley

"my life is a mixture of both the modern times and the times that are now forgotten"