Dan Cootes

Dan Cootes
Nuu-chah-nulth Artist

Dan is from the Nuu-chah-nulth nation; his parents are Art and Val Cootes. Dan was born in Port Alberni, B.C. July 31, 1965. He grew up in his people's territory on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Dan received his traditional cultural education directly from various members of his extended family. Dan credits his uncle Ellery as his constant and most powerful inspiration to the art of carving. Gordon Clayton and William Hawkins also taught him the traditional art of carving. For the last several years, Dan has been carving on his own without the constant guidance of an instructor. Dan is the father of one child. Dan is carrying on the family tradition of carving and often works with his dad. He enjoys fishing whenever he gets the chance. Dan's carvings are good examples of traditional form on the West Coast of Vancouver Island today. A carving by Dan Cootes should be welcomed and admired in any collection.

Wood Carver