Sam Jackson &
Rebecca Brewer
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ABOUT
Sam Jackson is a Tlingit Native born in Sitka and raised in Haines. A natural artist, Sam has an eye for detail and form and likes to use his hands to be creative. He is inspired by animals, boats, bright colors, and things he finds on the beach. Sam has developed wood carving, painting, and drawing skills which incorporate NorthWest art and his own personal style. His non-stop sense of humor always adds an element of fun to his work. Rebecca Brewer is a lifelong Alaskan who resides on her homestead in Haines. An adventurer and artist, she enjoys all sorts of subsistence activities. Her favorite skills are tanning skins, felting raw wool, wood carving, and basketry. She loves to make functional things that bring simple beauty back into daily life. |
ARTIST STATEMENT
Sam Jackson and Rebecca Brewer motivate each other to make art! Working as a collaborative team over the last 10 years they have focused on traditional wood carving and Tlingit Formline designs in their work. Always side by side Rebecca uses hand-over-hand assists to stabilize and strengthen Sam’s hands and arms. Together they are able to use block planes, spoke shaves, crooked knives, saws, rasps, and sanders with all their four hands on the tools. (See the images below.) Rebecca says: “It has been remarkable to watch Sam’s mental outlook change as we are able to use traditional tools together. He aims higher in his abilities and dreams bigger about what he can accomplish. He has been able to connect with a Native Art mentor who has fostered him towards more carving and painting, and always encourages him to stay clean and sober. We have witnessed the power of traditional art to give him purpose, recognition, confidence and a sense of connection to his culture. Our practice is a powerful tool for preventing depression, addiction, and loneliness. |
