Brillon, Jesse
Jesse Brillon was born November 25th, 1972, with Haida-Cree heritage in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. This small coastal town is located in the Northern region of the province. It is a rich cultural centre for the Tsimshian and Haida nations and is therefore a source of inspiration for many artisans.
Jesse, growing up in Prince Rupert, began his interest in Haida Art as a boy, influenced strongly by his Haida-Cree heritage and many art books. As a young boy, he was immersed in his culture, and he would watch his elders create important ceremonial objects. While accompanying his grandfather on fishing excursions to the islands of Haida Gwaii, the mystical richness of the land unfolded to his creative and spiritual senses. He developed a love for the many unique islands and adopted an intense respect for the ocean. He was impressed by the ecological richness, the abundant fish and animal species and how they wove themselves into the cultural canvas of the Haida People.
To satisfy his interests, Jesse explored the works of artists Bill Reid, Robert Davidson and Don Yeomans. Upon graduating from high school, Jesse received a special gift from his family, which was a gold repose bracelet by noted artist, Don Yeomans. He was very grateful for the gift, not only to own it, but it inspired him to pursue an art career of his own. Consequently, Jesse met with Don Yeomans and worked with him for a year where he learned basic designing and engraving techniques in silver and gold as well as in wood
Later, he left to pursue work as a commercial fisherman and in recent years, has relocated to Hazelton in Northwest BC to study with noted Gitksan artist Philip Janze. He was impressed by Philip's reputation as an excellent teacher and has enjoyed this study in gold in silver. Philip Janze, widely known for his expertise. in the techniques known as chasing and repose work, has greatly influenced and inspired Jesse to create his own jewellery pieces in this style. Jesse continues to create jewellery pieces in silver and gold and plans to challenge himself with the art of woodcarving. He is clearly on his way to establishing himself as an emerging Haida artist whose work is already sought after by many collectors worldwide. Jesse's pieces are individualized by their boldness and depth, which are techniques found in traditional Haida art.