CULTURAL GROUP:
Haida

BORN:
December 20, 1951

BIRTHPLACE:
Prince Rupert, BC

Nelson Cross is from the Eagle clan. He began carving in 1973, and trained under his uncle, Haida artist and teacher Gordon Cross, and Haida argillite carver Pat Dixon. His father is Raymond Cross, who is known for his carved leather work. Nelson attended a repoussé and chasing workshop for jewellery design with English goldsmith Peter Page. In 1986, he helped renowned Haida artist Bill Reid to carve and paint a large canoe for Expo ’86. He also learned soldering techniques from Bill Reid. Nelson currently resides in Skidegate, and spends a great deal of his time creating jewellery in silver and gold.