Argillite Salmon Carving by Amy Edgars (Haida)

"To me the salmon means joy! Joy of fishing, eating and carving." - Haida artist, Amy Edgars 

Hand-carved by Haida artist Amy Edgars. The design features salmon & is signed on the bottom by the artist. Salmon represents sustenance, abundance, and prosperity.  

This piece is made of argillite, which is a protected volcanic slate found on one mountaintop on Haida Gwaii. This stone is carved exclusively by Haida artists.

Meet the Artist:

Amy Edgars is a Haida artist from Old Massett, British Columbia. She was inspired by her late father, Myles Edgars, to pursue the art of argillite carving. Amy began carving at the age of 16. "I saw my dad and others carving every day, so I thought I better sit down and try it out," says Amy. She also notes the late Haida artist Pat Wesley as an influence in developing her carving skills.

Amy is one of few Haida women argillite carvers and has been carving for over 15 years. She has a passion for carving and has made the trip up Slatechuck Mountain several times to gather her own argillite. 

About Argillite: 

Argillite is a black stone that is geologically classified as slate. The argillite from Haida Gwaii is found on one mountaintop and is protected by the Haida Nation as a stone exclusively carved by the Haida people.

This stone’s geological formation makes it unique compared to argillite found elsewhere. Exposure to high heats allowed this argillite to cool and form in a way that was strong enough to be carved, yet soft enough to take on fine carving details and sculpting.

Variation: Each carving is made by hand. Please expect some minor variation in the shape of the carving, location & texture of carving lines & colour of paua shell. These slight variations ensure that each piece is truly unique & special.

Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any inquiries. We look forward to attending to your needs with the utmost care and attention to detail.