Kelvin Thompson Watch - Raven

Ojibwe/Haisla

Kelvin Thompson is an Ojibwe/Haisla master jeweler renowned for his silver and gold carvings. Trained under Barry and Derek Wilson at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre in 1979, he has spent decades perfecting his craft—from oxidized finishes to intricate cut-out work. His expertise extends beyond jewelry to sculptural pieces in alder, maple, and cedar, including a totem pole carved with respected Haisla artist Henry Robertson. A dedicated mentor, Kelvin has taught countless artists the techniques of Northwest Coast jewelry carving and co-led the inaugural Northwest Coast Jewellery Arts Program at Vancouver's Native Education College. His work has graced notable figures including James Taylor, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Elton John, and Vicki Gabereau through a 2009 commission for a Vancouver General Hospital fundraiser. Featured in the landmark publication Understanding Northwest Coast Indigenous Jewelry, Kelvin's pieces represent the pinnacle of contemporary Indigenous artistry and cultural continuity.