Levina Johnson – (Nee – Martin)

Levina Johnson – “I was born and raised in Tofino, BC  in 1965 . I started Carving and drawing as a teen, as a means of escape.

I started out with model canoes and paddles. In my adult life I continued to draw, and as a means of income to help support my children then took a two year carving course at the Duquah Gallery where I refined my designing skills as well I learned the art of carving masks with Ray Martin in my first year, Patrick Amos in my second year. I continued to sit by Pat’s side, as well as many other carvers. I hung around with Henry Nolla, learning totems and bigger carvings.

I recently carved with Sanford Williams for approx. … 6 months. There I learned about steaming boxes, and taking my art to different level. To date I’ve carved about 27 years. I’m a mother of five and grandmother to one.

In the moment of carving, I clear my thoughts and get in touch with my emotion. To know I can heal while creating and sharing what I know and see means everything to me. I’m extremely cultural and spend each and every day learning something from my father. I owe all my respect to all the teachers in my life who believed in me and took the time to show me and teach me.”