Visual Artist
Gwayne Point
Since 1986, Gwayne has dedicated himself to his artistic pursuits, a journey that began when three of his works were selected as awards at Expo '86's dog show. A former carpenter with a keen eye for detail, Gwayne constructed his own residence, designating a special room solely for his artistic endeavors. He cherishes the solitude and quietude that accompany his creative process.
Gwayne draws immense inspiration from the esteemed Haida artist Bill Reid, with whom he had the privilege to collaborate in Reid's Granville Island studio. Among Gwayne's most prized creations is his "Canada Geese" piece, celebrated for its meticulousness and traditional form line design.
Gwayne articulates his artistic philosophy:
"The ability to create art is in itself a source of inspiration for me, coupled with the satisfaction of seeing the finished piece in all its beauty.
My encounters with wildlife during my time in the interior, where I engage in hunting and trapping, serve as the wellspring of my creative ideas. These experiences have brought me face to face with the very creatures that populate my artwork.
My creative process begins with a rudimentary sketch, which then undergoes numerous iterations, sometimes up to a dozen drafts, before culminating in the final artwork.
The catalyst for my passion was an artwork titled 'The Clam People', which draws on the Haida myth of the Raven and the Clam. The Northwest Coast style resonates deeply with me.
Among my proudest achievements are the privilege of working alongside Bill Reid and the accolades received for my inaugural artworks at various art exhibitions.
Crafting a piece as intricate as my 'Canada Geese' requires a level of steadiness and precision that can only be maintained in the absence of substances that could impair one's ability to produce a fluid and consistent hand."