Wilf J. Sampson

Gitksan Nation

Wilf Sampson was born in Hazelton, British Columbia, Canada in 1957.  He is a member of the Gitksan Nation, which inhabits the Northern coast of the province.

Wilf has been designing and carving Northwest Coast Native art since 1981.  He initially taught himself by looking through books and by observing the works of other artists.  Motivated by the beauty of the art, as well as the sense of accomplishment, Wilf completed the beginners and advanced carving and design courses at the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Art and Design in Hazelton in 1984.  While at the school, Wilf honed his talents and skills under master artists such as Walter Harris, Earl Muldoe, Ken Mowatt and Vernon Stevens.  Wilf obtained additional inspiration and guidance from realist artist and Native art enthusiast, Ron Burleigh.

Wilf Sampson takes great pride in continuing the traditions of Northwest Coast Native art, exemplified in his carvings and paintings.  All of his works are original designs, many of which invoke contemporary as well as traditional designs and motifs.  He specializes in carved and painted decorative masks as well as original paintings.

Many of his works are in private collections and galleries around the world, including Japan, the United States and several countries in Europe.  Wilf plans to pursue his career as an artist by enrolling in further studies of art and by continuing to carve, paint and design.