Raymond Williams
Nuu-chah-nulth
(1933-1988)
Raymond (Ray) Williams was born in 1933 into a family famous for their carvings. Sam Williams, Ray’s father, developed a relationship with Joseph Edward Standley, owner of Ye Olde Curiosity Shop in Seattle. This relationship continued for generations, with Standley’s descendants still purchasing carvings and totems from Sam’s children, including Ray, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Williams was a father to many children, most of whom became carvers in their own right, including Harvey, Rita, John, and Rick.
Having never attended school, Williams was taught later in life how to carve his name on his works as a signature. He struggled with alcohol and drug abuse, homelessness, and poverty throughout his life, passing away in 1988.
Artwork
| Title | Last Sold At Auction | |
|---|---|---|
| 2009-03 (March 2009) | ||
| HAWK SUN MASK FRONTLET CA. 1970 | 2024-12 (December 2024) |