Ladle depicting Dzunukwa, c. 1980
by Ayunli (Richard "Dick" Smith)
Adopted by the Sewide Family, Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation
red cedar, human hair, pigment
28” long x 10” wide x 9” deep
Ayunli (Richard "Dick" Smith) is the second child of Shona-Hah (Mary Smith) and Fearon Smith Sr., and brother of Lelooska (Don Smith), Patty Fawn, and Tsungani (Fearon Smith Jr.).
Growing up in a family already deeply involved in Indian arts, it was natural for him to become an artist. He is skilled in all mediums of Northwest Coastal art, and specialized in cedar wood carvings. He was greatly influenced by his mother Shona-Hah and his grandfather Enoch Fountain Hinkle, who imparted to the family the essence of their heritage.
Though as talented as his brother’s Lelooska and Tsungani, Richard chose to remain out of the spotlight. He moved away from the family compound in Arial, Washington to Oregon with his wife Susan. He carved pieces for the renowned Living History programs, but did not participate in the dances.
