"My art is a metaphor for my life." -- Phill Ashbee
For Phill Ashbee, contemporary and aboriginal artist, his art has been an important part of the discovery of his rich cultural heritage and he expresses it through his unique artistic style. Born in Ontario of Cree, French, and Irish descent, Phill is an accomplished artist whose wood carvings, masks, ceremonial bowls, carved salmon and bronze castings can be found in collections around the world.
The process of carving allows Phill to express the challenge of his own personal human journey. Says Phill, "As I shape and mold the materials, I exercise my patience, strength and softness. My heart and ears open to the Spirit of Mother Cedar and the Spirit moves." Click here to learn more about Phill.
Phill's dedication and skill have gained him much praise on a national level. He found success early in his career as his mask entitled "Transformation Man" was selected for the Aboriginal Achievement Foundation's Awards program. That mask, recreated in a sixteen foot format, now adorns the lobby of the prestigious CBC Building in Toronto.
Click here to see more of his work.
In addition to his artwork, Phill teaches wood carving workshops across North America. He teaches the basic hand carving techniques, honoring the original aboriginal carvers and their traditions. Past participants have made masks, feast dishes, and ceremonial bowls.
Click here to learn more about his carving workshops.
Today, Phill lives and works on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He has won several awards and commissions and his exhibitions have been held through the Pacific Northwest. |
