A Legacy of Tsimshian Artistry
Frederick Alexcee was a Canadian carver and painter from the community of Lax Kw'alaams, belonging to the Tsimshian ethnicity. Born in 1853, his heritage was shaped by his mother, a Tsimshian woman from the Giluts'aaw tribe of the Gispwudwada clan, and his father, an Iroquois laborer. Within the matrilineal system, Alexcee followed his mother's lineage and held the Tsimshian name 'Wiiksmwan, which means Great Deer Woman.
As a trained halaayt carver, Alexcee engaged in shamanic practices traditionally reserved for chiefs. He crafted naxnox (spirit) paraphernalia and items for use in ceremonies of secret societies, many of which were targeted for eradication by missionaries in Lax Kw'alaams during the late 19th century. His diverse body of work included carvings for the Indian curio trade, drawings, and paintings depicting traditional life in Port Simpson.
Artistic Contributions and Recognition
Alexcee's artistic output spanned various forms, from spiritual objects to religious adornments. He carved human figures to decorate a baptismal font for the Methodist church in Port Simpson. His reputation as an artist was recognized on a national stage; in 1927, two of his paintings were exhibited at the National Gallery of Canada.
His works are preserved in numerous significant institutions, including:
Alexcee passed away in the 1940s.
Questions & Answers
Can I browse Frederick Alexcee's works by medium?
To find all works by Frederick Alexcee in a given medium, use the artist's All Medium page.
How can I see every artwork made by Frederick Alexcee?
Every work by Frederick Alexcee on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
In which historical period did Frederick Alexcee work?
Frederick Alexcee worked in the 19th-Century period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
Can I visit a virtual museum of Frederick Alexcee's works?
A virtual visit is possible: the 3D Museum page of Frederick Alexcee presents the artist's works in a three-dimensional gallery.
