James DeLaCruz Jr.

James DeLaCruz, Jr. is an enrolled member of the Quinault Nation, deeply rooted in his heritage through his family connections to the Comenout, Hudson, Cultee, and DeLaCruz families. His artistic journey began in childhood, inspired by the craftsmanship of his grandmother, Tillie, a skilled basket weaver, and his mother, who also practiced weaving. In 1990, a family friend named Sam Goodman, who was living with James’ father, gave him a block of red cedar, recognizing his artistic talent. The two would often jam out together, playing guitar, and it was during these sessions that James began carving masks. Sam showed him books featuring British Columbia masks, sparking James’ deep connection with cedar. This was the beginning of his carving journey, and he quickly fell in love with the craft and the material.

James has honed his carving skills over the years, creating a diverse range of works, including ladles, paddles, masks, plaques, house poles, and totem poles. His formal training includes an apprenticeship with renowned carver Pete Peterson, Sr., where he learned the intricacies of carving, tool making, and painting between 2001 and 2003. He collaborated with Randy Capoeman to teach students about Northwest Coastal art and formline design, creating paddles, drums, and bowls with their class.

One of his notable projects involved carving a 75-foot pole for the Quinault Nation, featuring a hollowed-out back with intricate three-dimensional designs and vibrant colors. James also contributed to a significant initiative by carving 15 house poles for the Joe DeLaCruz Park in Taholah and worked on the barge boards at The Evergreen State College Fiber Arts Studio, collaborating with master carvers from New Zealand’s Maori community. His work is also showcased at the Squaxin Island Tribe Museum, where he carved two welcome figures.

Additionally, he designs unique artwork for clothing and apparel as a side business, blending traditional techniques with contemporary design.

In 2024, James graduated with a BA from The Evergreen State College, further enriching his artistic perspective. Currently, he is engaged in creating six welcome figures for the Nisqually Tribe, a project that reflects his commitment to cultural expression and community.