Shark the Spinx in Argillite

Gary Minaker-Russ is one of the foremost carvers of argillite at the present time. He has developed a distinctive carving style and is renowned for his imaginative and powerful interpretations of the ancient Haida legends. His carving is characterized by traditional form and content, displaying an unpolished aesthetic in the traditional sense. His works exhibit a profound understanding of sculptural form and sensitivity to the subject matter.

Gary is from the Eagle Clan with Beaver, Sculpin, Frog, and Black Whale Crest. He is a carver of poles, sculptures, boxes, bowls, and jewelry using argillite, ivory, and whale's teeth.

Minaker-Russ has been working in argillite since approximately 1977. He studied under his brother and sister-in-law, Ed and Faye Russ, for a number of years while learning the stories, forms, and techniques essential to his craft.

In 2008, Carol Sheehan featured Gary and thirteen other argillite carvers in her book 'Breathing Stone.' Minaker-Russ is represented in the collections of the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Hull, Quebec, and the Royal British Columbia Provincial Museum in Victoria, BC. His works are included in important collections internationally.