Martin, Mungo

Mungo Martin (Na̱kap̓a̱nka̱m) is one of the 20th century’s most distinguished Kwakwaka'wakw carvers. He was born about 1881 at Tsaxis (Fort Rupert) on Vancouver Island. Following the death of Martin’s father, his mother married the gifted carver Charlie James. Under James’ tutelage, Martin developed his artistic skills along with a profound understanding of traditional Kwakwaka’wakw culture.

In 1940 a handful of old totem poles were erected on a vacant lot at the corner of Douglas and Belleville streets as a part of conservation efforts to preserve and display some of the Northwest Coast's rapidly deteriorating art. That lot became known as Thunderbird Park. By 1951 the original poles had become severely decayed. When the decision was made to replace the original totem poles on display in Thunderbird Park, the museum invited Martin to undertake the project. Between 1952 and 1962 he created replica poles as well as new poles for Thunderbird Park, and sent others poles around the world, including the Centennial Pole presented to Queen Elizabeth in 1958 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of British Columbia. This pole stands in Windsor Great Park near London, England.

After Martin's passing in 1962, renowned native artist Henry Hunt carried on the programme as head carver. Richard Hunt and Tim Paul succeeded Henry Hunt until the end of the programme in 1992. Other artists to work as part of the programme include Lawrence Bell, Simon Charlie, Doug Cranmer, David Gladstone, Godfrey Hunt, Tony Hunt, Gerry Marks, David Martin, Frank Puglas, Bill Reid, Paul Sam, Art Thompson, Joe Wilson and Ron Wilson.

Between 1952 and 1992, four Master Carvers (Mungo Martin, Henry Hunt, Richard Hunt and Tim Paul) were employed to direct a wide range of carving projects in Thunderbird Park. Working with associate carvers, many of whom became renowned and influential artists, they created works of art for the park, for the museum’s collection, for other countries and institutions, and in support of community projects. Their expertise was widely recognized and their works are in many locations around the world. The program helped many carvers hone their skills and it educated thousands of visitors about the living traditions of First Nations people.

Antique Mask by Mungo Martin

SOLD