Born in 1948, Art Thompson is a practitioner of the traditional arts of his people, the Nuu-chah-nulth. He has also become an important innovative force in West Coast carving, silver work, and printmaking. Well known for his prints, Art Thompson's graphic art is uninhibited and free flowing while closely adhering to the traditions and conventions of West Coast (Nuu-chah-nulth) art. He helped develop the current state of West Coast design along with Ron Hamilton and Joe David. He is also involved in the traditional cultural ceremonies of his people as well as being very involved with political and social issues now facing the Nuu-chah-nulth.