Carey Newman is an engaging Kwagiulth artist who is prominent among the younger generation of native artists. Under the influence and support of his father and mother, Carey developed his artistic ability and cultural knowledge from an early age, mastering many techniques and mediums including wood, stone, glass, paint, gold, silver, and gem setting.

Artistry is in Carey's blood. His great, great grandfather Charlie James, his great aunt Ellen Neel, and his father Victor, are all renowned wood carvers. Carey’s goal is to follow the footpaths of his family who have passed on their beliefs in artistic integrity, quality, and self-respect.

While there is a contemporary flare to his work, Carey is very careful to adhere to traditional rules and values, drawing upon his Kwagiulth, Salish and British heritage for inspiration. Finding new ways to express himself without disregarding history is extremely important to him.

In addition to the works available at the Blue Raven Gallery, Carey has been commissioned by private collectors, and has created works for corporations, government agencies and museums around the world.

Carey's involvement with the cultural community extends beyond his artwork. As a musician, he has studied piano at the University of Victoria and voice at the Victoria Conservatory of Music. He has won several awards in both piano and voice at the Greater Victoria Music Festival, and has performed solo roles with the Pacific Opera in Victoria.

Victor Newman was born in Alert Bay in 1937, of Kwagiulth and Salish descent. In the past 30 years, he has emerged as one of the most discerning carvers of his generation. Known for his fine quality craftsmanship and the powerful simplicity of his lines, Victor has won many awards for his carved masks, totems, serigraph prints, and gold and silver jewelry. His artwork is on display in private and public collections around the world.

Victor has a strong heritage in native art. As a young boy he was inspired by his aunt, Ellen Neel, who was the first woman carver, as he watched her create the works that would keep the Kwagiulth artisan tradition alive. His great grandfather, Charlie James, is widely regarded as one of the true masters of totem pole carving.

As a native art teacher in the Victoria School District for twenty years, Victor has passed on his wisdom to hundreds of young people, making him an integral figure in the recent Native cultural resurgence. He taught not only the symbols and rules of the artwork, but also the pride and self-respect that are so important to the continuation of a people. Through his carving, Victor has revealed his skill and imagination. Through his teaching, he has shown us his humanity. For his work as an artist and teacher Victor has been honored with the name “Hemu-Sacha,” which means “the making of a chief.”

Edith Newman is an accomplished fiber artist who designs both elegant and casual apparel for men and women, including jackets, dresses, tuxedos, shirts, and vests as well as decorative art such as wall hangings, pillow covers and quilts.

Her Newman Ayesu Originals clothing line combines Kwagiulth native motifs, created by her husband Victor and son Carey, with her fashion designs, to produce unique and wearable art. Edith meticulously appliqués symbols, which are blended into the natural curves of each garment, encompassing the wearer. This is meant to offer the protection or personality of the Native figures.

Edith excels at custom designing clothing, working with clients by appointment, to find the right pattern, and design for their personality.

Newman Ayesu Originals have been modeled across Canada, in France and Italy, and have won national fashion awards.