Duane Pasco | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | May 14, 1932 |
| Died | July 31, 2024 (age 92) |
| Nationality | American |
| Website | www |
Duane Pasco (May 14, 1932 - July 31, 2024) was an American artist. He was known for his indigenous-style work and as a teacher of Northwest Coast art, in particular as a key contributor to reviving the 'Ksan style. [1] [2] [3]
Pasco was raised in Alaska and Seattle, [4] and was of English and Irish descent. [5] He was professionally active since his first gallery showing in 1966, working in both carving and two-dimensional formats. [5] In 1967, he took a leave of absence from his then-employment for a steel-construction company, in order to move beyond what he describes as making "curios" [4] and pursue art education full-time. He again made a major change in approach in 1976. At both these times, he was heavily influenced in his artistic development by the writings and works of artist and historian Bill Holm. [4] He has taught classes at many universities and schools in Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska, notably the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art ('Ksan), [2] where he influenced artists such as Walter Harris. He was a friend and associate of Nuu-Chah-Nulth artist Joe David. [5] Pasco was a noted[ who? ] canoe carver, mentoring novice canoe carvers and actively assisting them in the steaming process.
His carved totems are publicly viewable in Seattle at Occidental Park and Seattle Center, [6] [7] and in Sitka, Alaska at Sitka National Historical Park. [8]
He was a speaker and expounder of Chinook Jargon. In the early 1990s he published the bi-monthly Tenas Wawa newsletter in Poulsbo, Washington. [9]
Duane Pasco died July 31, 2024, at his home in Poulsbo, Washington. [10] [11]
