Andy Wilbur-Peterson
Born in 1955 in Shelton, Washington, Andy Wilbur-Peterson is a member of the Skokomish Tribe. He began carving after being inspired by a tour of a museum exhibiting Northwest Coast art, and began exploring various art forms. By the age of 18, he had taught himself how to both, carve and paint.
Later, Wilbur-Peterson revived the traditional steam-bent box here at Skokomish. His early designs were predominantly in northern style, because it was most accessible. Later, sources at the University of Washington and British Columbia yielded examples on which he used as a basis for developing a traditional and exciting Coast Salish style. He also studied Salish art pieces made by his great-grandfather, Henry Allen. In 1987, he worked with Makah Artist, Greg Colfax on a 12-foot female welcoming figure for The Evergreen State College. In 1994-1995, Wilbur-Peterson worked with Steve Brown on a pole for Richmond Beach Park. While working on the pole, Steve introduced Wilbur-Peterson to many types of carving tools. He also taught him the art of tool making and silver carving. Wilbur-Peterson now makes his own tools, which has broadened and enhanced his carving career. Wilbur-Peterson continues to research and contribute to the revival of the Salish art. He has taught many people and is currently working with his youngest daughter, Bunni, in all of the art forms, and looks forward to working with his grandchildren and keeping the Salish Art forms alive.
He is currently working collaboratively on a variety of large-scale carving projects for his gallery. His works include both Salish and Northern style; steam-bent boxes/chests, panels, drums, rattles, paddles, masks, speaker staffs, bowls, totems, button-blankets, silver and furniture.”
Image: quintanagalleries.com
Text: Andy Wilbur-Peterson
Artwork in Cornett:
Third Floor
B Wing
