Beckman Private Collection of Northwest Coast Art

James and Joanne Beckman of New York State started their collecting journey in September of 1990 on their first trip to the Pacific Northwest. Driving from Portland, Oregon all the way to Campbell River, British Columbia, the Beckman's carefully planned their trip to view as much Northwest Coast Indigenous art as possible and to experience the rich cultural heritage of Vancouver Island.

The first piece the Beckman's purchased was the Thunderbird and Killer Whale Drum by Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation artist Nancy Dawson. They purchased this piece from the acclaimed Arts of the Raven Gallery in Victoria, British Columbia where they met the co-owner, renowned Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation master carver Tony Hunt Sr.

This was the beginning of a twenty-year journey of collecting that primarily focused on the carvings and prints of the Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation. This collection includes works by renowned carvers including Trevor and Patrick Hunt, Kevin Cramner, Erich Glendale, and Ned and Ozzie Matilpi to name but a few.

Quintana Galleries is honored to offer these beautiful works for sale, and look forward to finding the next home for these beloved and passionately collected objects.