Shawn Karpes path as an artist is familiar.

Like many other Northwest Coast artists he started learning his craft early – an endless quest to learn the techniques, enhance his skills, gain an understanding of the intricacies and varieties that is the complex world of Northwest Coast art.

His journey as an artist started in the Native art program of the public school system in Victoria, B.C.. Canada. Here he learned about the culture and history of the Kwakwaka’wakw people and other Westcoast First Nations.

Later he studied design, painting, basic carving, from two well-known Northwest carvers – Victor Newman and George Hunt Jr., both members of Shawn’s family.

His mother also played a role in his artistic journey of discovery.

She was worked at an art gallery, Arts of the Raven in Victoria, B.C., and introduced Shawn to many First Nations artists, whose works were shown at the gallery.

Eventually Shawn also ended up working at the gallery along with top-notch Northwest Coast carvers, Tony Hunt Sr., Tony Hunt Jr., John Livingston, giving him the opportunity to increase his skills in mask carving and box design by learning from them.

Later Shawn was involved in projects with renowned Kwakwaka’wakw carvers Beau Dick and Wayne Alfred.

He also learned the art of silver and goldsmithing working with Fah Ambers for two years.

Shawn is a member of the Namgis (Nimpkish) band.

His art incorporates three aspects – traditional Northwest Coast designs with elements of the natural and supernatural world.

The results are spectacular, striking, memorable, pieces of the Northwest Coast art form.

And keeping with tradition and his generous spirit Shawn has become a knowledge keeper tasked with ensuring that First Nation’s rituals, knowledge, and traditions are kept front and centre.

As part of that he often is called upon to help with community potlatches and projects.

By giving back to his people Shawn is honouring those who shared their knowledge and artistic skills with him.