Tofino Artist: Silver carver Paul Sam

Paul Sam was born in Tofino, to Dixon and Cora Sam in 1956. His family is from the village of Ahousat, 12 miles north of Tofino on Flores Island.

Artistic expression runs strong in his blood, his mother knits sweaters and his sisters are avid beaders. Paul credits his family for fostering the love of the arts in his soul. Paul grew up in Tofino and went to school in Ucluelet.

It was John Goodwin from Neah Bay that first taught Paul the art of silver carving. Paul has been carving now for the better part of a decade and continues to support him self through this art. Paul designs his own pieces, inspired by his pride in his Nuu Chah Nulth heritage. His pieces are known for their creative composition.

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Paul's work can be found in Tofino at the House of Himwitsa Art Gallery and at www.himwitsa.com