Chazz Mack is a young and talented artist of both Nuxalk and Heiltsuk heritage. He is a member of the Heiltsuk Nation but he has resided in Nuxalk Territory for most of his life. Chazz is a member of the Raven, Grizzly and Double Headed Sea Serpent clan from Bella Coola. Born and raised in Bella Coola, Mack is a graduate of the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art and has also taught at the Acwsalcta School. 

He has been practicing art for over a decade and describes himself as being “surrounded” by art and artists his entire life. His father, Joe Mack, is a well-known artist in the local community.

Mack is a prolific painter and his work is engaging and fluid. He paints “whatever comes into his mind” and his work often reflects the natural world around him. Animals of the land and sea are popular themes in his work. 

In addition to painting, Mack also carves with alder and cedar, and creates unique jewelry. His work “blends traditional and contemporary elements” and has a sense of youthfulness and luminosity. He also assisted in the carving of two significant community totem poles in the past year. His Nuxalk name is Nunuusxli which means “Is a fast learner” or “likes to learn things.”

"My hope is that my work helps to keep the traditions alive so they are passed onto the next generation."

Follow Chazz Mack on Instagram.

For sources go here.