Justin Sappier

Justin Sappier, a Peskotomuhkati-Wolastoqey (Passamaquoddy-Maliseet) currently lives in Island View, New Brunswick, Canada. He uses his Aboriginal art, especially traditional woodcarving, to educate the public on Wabanaki (East Coast) First Nations culture. Raised in the Peskotomuhka/Wolastoqey territory, Justin works to bring awareness to the issues presently facing indigenous groups on the East Coast, striving to bring pride and proper recognition.

“I work with wood for the connection to Mother Earth. When I carve, the feel and smell of the wood grounds me. The experience brings me closer to my roots and helps me understand the history of my people in a personalized, experience-driven way. Woods’ ability to be manipulated makes it a perfect medium to explore three-dimensional art. Being able to reclaim a discarded log that most in today’s society would throw in a fire, and instead use it to create art, not only reconnects our society with nature but also raises awareness of Aboriginal history here on the East Coast of Canada.” – Justin Sappier