(1957 - Present)

Wilfred Sampson has been involved in Northwest Coast Native Art since 1981.  He was initially self-taught, but wishing to hone his skills, he attended the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Art and Design in Hazelton, BC for advanced studies in carving in 1984. There he was able to study under Master Carvers such as Chief Walter Harris, Earl Muldon, Ken Mowatt and Vern Stephens.

Sampson’s artwork reflects the pride he takes in his craft. He specializes in carved and painted masks, but also produces exquisitely carved boxes and other fine pieces. An eight-foot Totem Pole was commissioned by the Houston Museum in Houston, BC. For the Calgary Olympic Exhibition in 1988, he carved a wolf mask which now sits in the Glenbow Museum. He also designed the logo for the Canadian Mental Health Association’s 1990 National Conference. This design was later produced in a 250-piece limited edition print and was reproduced on clothing that still generates revenue for the C.M.H.A. All of Sampson’s pieces are original designs, combining traditional Northwest Coast imagery with contemporary motifs. Sampson’s work is included in international corporate and private collections alike.