BIO Basil D’Arcy

D’Arcy Basil is an Indigenous artist and sculptor whose work is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Northwest Coast. Growing up in Alert Bay, British Columbia, he was introduced to art at a young age by his mother and later studied formline design and painting at the T’lisa̱lagi’lakw School. He received early mentorship from legendary Kwakwaka’wakw master carvers Beau Dick and Wayne Alfred, and later apprenticed under Musqueam master carver Chris Sparrow and his late father, Irvin Sparrow.

D’Arcy draws inspiration from the legends, wildlife, and natural landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. His sculptures and masks are crafted in a variety of materials, including marble, alabaster, chlorite, wood, and metal. Recently, he began specializing in jade carving after training with internationally acclaimed jade artist Deborah Wilson and continues to refine his skills under the mentorship of jade master Lyle Sopel.

His work has been collected both locally and internationally. Currently, he is working on a 2,500-pound jade monument in honor of the children from the Kamloops Indian Residential School, where his father was a student. This powerful piece will be housed at the Secwepemc Museum in Kamloops, B.C.

D’Arcy strives to blend innovation with tradition, infusing each creation with love and excellence.