Ron (Gitkinjuaas) Wilson (Haida/Canadian, b. 1945)
Argillite Beaver Totem
Argillite pole inscribed "Gitsgah 1972", refined three dimensional figure of Beaver with figure
Provenance:
Purchased at Sasquatch Trader, Victoria, September 1972
Private Collection, B.C.
Size in inches: 5.5 h x 2.25 w x 2.6 d
P20414
Ron Wilson began carving in 1962 and studied with Tim Pearson. He spent four years at the Vancouver School of Art (now known as the Emily Carr University of Art and Design) from 1966 to 1969 and a year and a half at Thunderbird Park training with Henry Hunt Sr. He used his Haida name, Gitsgah, as his signature for most of his carving career, refined to Giitxaas and then Gitkinjuaas. Major works include a 9 foot pole for the Civic Center in Prince Rupert, a replica of the Skedans Burieal Box that currently sits over the entrance to the graveyard in Skidegate, and a 52 foot totem at the site of the Qay'llnagaay Heritage Centre in Skidegate. Gitkinjuaas is the first nephew of Chief Cumshewa and as is the current hereditary Chief of the Eagle Clan of Cumshewa. He is still carving, primarily known for his detailed work in argillite and jewellery.