Thomas Wilson |
Thomas Edward Wilson was born in Alert Bay, British Columbia on September 10, 1960. Thomas is Kwakiutl, and lives in T’sakis (Fort Rupert, British Columbia). Thomas has lived in Fort Rupert for most of his life, and has lived in Alert Bay for a period of two years. Thomas’ mother is Dolores Wilson (1) whose parents were Emma Dawson and Andrew Dawson (Kingcome). Thomas’ father was Chief Thomas Edward Wilson Sr. who was from T’sakis; his parents were Chief Robert Wilson (Kwakiutl), and Annie Wilson (2). Thomas will receive his father’s chieftainship the next time his family potlatches. Thomas is married to Paula Wilson (3) and has three children, whose names are Derek Wilson, Darren Wilson, and Selina Wilson (who was named after Thomas’ late sister). Thomas would like to pass down what he has learned artistically to his children, as his children all like to draw. Thomas mirror etches, as well as practices wood burning. Thomas’ father (Chief Thomas Sr.) taught him the art of drawing seine boats. Thomas has also worked a bit with Ernest Jacobson on mirror etching. Ernest Jacobson was “the one who got me into mirror etching,” Thomas says. He also states that, “I’m just starting to get into my culture now, and I’d like to further my artwork.” 1 Dolores’ maiden name is Dawson and her family is from Kingcome. |