James Johnson - Tlingit Ch’áak’ Dakl’aweidi Clan Artist James Johnson was born and raised in Juneau, AK. He belongs to the Tlingit Ch’áak’ Dakl’aweidi Clan (Eagle Killerwhale). He taught himself the fundamentals of Tlingit formline design, and traditional carving. James's great great grandfather was Chief Gusht’eiheen of Angoon, AK. His great grandfather was Chief Jimmy Johnson, and his grandfather was Chief Peter Johnson. Whom he is named after - James Peter Johnson. James’s strong ancestral history led him to purse the Tlingit art form. His late father, Franklin Johnson, first encouraged him to begin carving. James has now dedicated his life to perpetuating the Tlingit art form, honoring his ancestors thru his work.
