Kolus Arts showcases the works of Simon Daniel James, also known as Winadzi, an internationally renowned artist in a variety of mediums including carving. He is from the Kwakwaka’wakw nation, most specifically from the Kwicksuteniuk clan from Gilford Island.
Raised in Campbell River, he started carving cedar at the age of 15 and trained under his father, a renowned carver with his own distinct style. He worked for several galleries in North America and participated in several art shows over the years. After leaving Campbell River, Winadzi attended ‘The Vancouver Film School’ from 1996-1998. He finished both 2D classical and 3D computer animation and created a short student film called “Dawn of Creation” which was the inspiration for Raven Tales “How Raven Stole the Sun”. While he was living in North Vancouver he was asked to carve three totem poles for Fukushima, Japan in 2001.
Simon has been working with National Geographic All Roads since 2004 being the first recipient of the National Geographic All Roads Film Grant for Raven Tales. Now living on Bowen Island with his wife Naomi James, Winadzi has completed the 26th episode of ‘Raven Tales’ and has been the proud owner of ‘Raven Tales Production Corp’ since 2004. Simon has collaborated on public art projects with artists on Bowen Island including a sculpture called “Embracing the Spirit of the Flame”. This project started on the day that the Olympic Flame came to Bowen Island on its way to the Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
In May of 2011 Simon collaborated in creating a carved cedar panel with students from Kindergarten to grade 5 for the Bowen Island Community School. Simon lives his life being involved in educating and entertaining children of all ages including his son Ryuki who was born in 2010 and daughter in 2012.
