Ed Benham

Edwin (Ed) Benham is a self-taught Mi’kmaw artist and craftsman with over 30 years of experience. Based in Wasoqopa’q First Nation, Ed’s work celebrates Mi’kmaw heritage through intricate wood sculptures, carved panels, and traditional crafts. His creations embody the knowledge and skills passed down through generations, paired with his own artistic exploration.

A skilled maker, Ed specializes in crafting crooked knives, bows and arrows, spruce burl carvings, and drums. He also creates murals, prints, and greeting cards, showcasing his artistic versatility. His dedication to craftsmanship has earned him national recognition, including a feature of his wood sculptures at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto and receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.

Driven by his love for creating, Ed became a full-time artist in 2011, continually innovating and upholding high standards in his work. He is passionate about cultural preservation and education, often leading land-based learning workshops that teach traditional skills such as drum assembly and painting, carving, and crafting crooked knives and bows.

While Ed currently works without a dedicated physical location, he plans to collaborate with local museums and galleries to share and sell his work. He also participates in cultural gatherings and events, ensuring his creations and teachings remain accessible to those seeking a connection to Mi’kmaw traditions.