Fall 2025
December 1-5

In this weeklong course, students will be guided by Squamish and Kwakwak’wakw master carver Xwalacktun (Rick Harry) in the creation of their own relief carving inspired by Coast Salish traditions. Under Xwlacktun’s guidance, students will learn and connect with the stories, traditions, and styles of Coast Salish Indigenous communities, including northern style Haida, Tsimshian, and Kwakwak’wakw. Ultimately, each student will create their own unique project inspired by these traditions. 

“I like bringing people together and learning. Spreading good news. Passing on knowledge. This work is connected to the earth, spirituality, unity, and the environment. It’s a good time to focus on this. 

“When I teach, I like to remember that everyone has a different pace and that we must enjoy the work. I tell students not to worry about what it looks like at the beginning. Get a feel for the work. Have fun.” - Xwalacktun

During this five-day course, students will learn about different styles of Coast Salish communities and how those styles are translated into carved relief panels. Xwlacktun will share the cultural and spiritual purposes of the practices; the messages and history behind the work. Each student will complete their own unique cedar panel (either Alaska Yellow or Western Red) design under Xwlacktun’s guidance and traditional approach.

Students will start their project with drawing and layout on paper, and then learn techniques to transfer that to wood. Since each design will be unique, students are encouraged to find meaning and purpose in their designs, to tell a story with their piece.  

Xwlacktun will spend significant time discussing and demonstrating carving techniques, including sharpening and tool use, proper ergonomics, cutting techniques, and understanding grain. 

In addition to carving technique, students will also be introduced to color use, including red ochre, copper, black, and white, as well as light washes and stains. 

Required Tools 

PTSW will provide all the tools required for this course, but students with their own carving and layout tools are encouraged to bring those.

Recommended:

• Straight knife

• Bent knife 

• Mallet 

• Gouges

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to info@ptwoodschool.org.

Prerequisites

Open to All

Class Information and Registration

Classes run 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday in Building 304 at Fort Worden. Map
Please read our What to Expect page for general information about the School.
Please also read our Registration Policy.
Please sign up for the waitlist if the course is full.

Class size: 12
Cost: $1000
Materials Charge: $75