Ernest Swanson

Ernest Swanson is the grandson of noted artist Rufus Moody and a matrilineal descendent of Charles Edenshaw. Swanson has completed two design courses with Robert Davidson and has studied with established Haida artists Jim McGuire, Christian White, and Jim Hart. Swanson graduated from Vancouver's Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts program under established Haida/Kwakwaka'wakw artist, Dan Wallace. His carving style is meticulous and controlled and the work he produces has both grace and power. Ernest works in argillite, precious metals, and cedar. His work is highly detailed and true to his Haida heritage. 

The British Columbia Alliance of Arts and Culture has given Swanson the award for best emerging artist of 2005 which was presented to him by Robert Davidson. That same year he, along with Tyson Brown, assisted Jim Hart in the carving of the Celebration of Bill Reid pole which was raised in February of 2009 at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art. 

2 items

Nuu Beginnings
Ernest Swanson (Haida)

2024 Edition /150 Available framed for $900 CAD. Please contact the gallery directly. The being w...

2024 Edition /150 Available framed for $900 CAD. Please contact the gallery directly. The being within the Nuu symbolizes humanity revealing its inner light. When the creator first bestowed this divine spark upon us, it was hidden deep within, knowing we would seek fulfillment in countless external places rather than recognizing the treasure inside ourselves. This profound gift was placed within us to help us understand that true enlightenment comes from looking inward. The octopus, embodying...

$450.00

Ghuuts (Wolf)
Ernest Swanson (Haida)

Edition /100 Available framed for $800 CAD. Please contact the gallery directly. Indigenous artwo...

Edition /100 Available framed for $800 CAD. Please contact the gallery directly. Indigenous artwork on the Pacific Northwest Coast often incorporates figures and animals that are related to crest symbols. Crests have been passed down through families and have varying meanings depending on the context and association with a nation, clan, or family. The figures depicted in contemporary Northwest Coast Indigenous artwork also have varying meanings but there are some common characteristics from a...

$400.00