Northwest Coast Carvings by Noel Ashley

After turning 24, Noel found himself studying under the watchful eye of Gene Brabant, a well-known former instructor at Arts of the Raven. There was no turning back now for Noel, and over the years he continued to seek out and study sculpture and painting techniques under masters such as Tim Paul, Pat Amos, Norval Morrisseau, Glen Wood, Isaac Bignell, and Kevin Leycraft. At the age of 27, Noel was the first award recipient for a sculpture competition sponsored by the Alberta Indian Arts and Crafts Society. Noel has also received various grants from The Calgary Regional Arts Foundation, Alberta Arts Foundation, and The Canadian Native Arts Foundation. Noel once used his skill in mask sculpture for a stage performance, earning him a “Playwrights Award” sponsored by the Alberta Government.

In 1995, Noel was awarded a commission to produce an eighteen foot sculpture for the 4th Street Arts Society in Calgary and another commission from The International Native Arts Festival to carve a 30 foot totem pole. During his career as a wood carver, Noel has produced numerous substantial totem poles for clients that can be found as far away as Washington D.C.

Describing his source of inspiration, Noel says “although my main focus has been described as being ethnocentric, I feel it had been a natural expression of who I was, and a service that was my privilege to offer. Lately I have been offered numerous opportunities to expand my horizons, to address more universal human concerns and themes, and I find these prospects challenging. Archetypes have always been a source of inspiration to me, and I feel that the use of masks is one of the bridges to expression of consciousness and ideals.”

Noel has travelled to Central America and Mexico with the express purpose of studying the philosophies and practices of local masters, who produce works often described as being profound in expression and meaning. The culture and art of the Mayan period has always been of interest to Noel. He plans on making future visits to further his studies of the art and techniques the area is famous for.

Noel exhibits regularly at the Triangle Gallery and offices of The International Native Arts Festival. Noel has been proud to call Calgary his home for the last 10 years, and he looks forward to the many experiences and opportunities that abound there.

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