Eric Schweig – Inuit Mask Carver and Artist
Eric Schweig is an Inuit artist, mask carver and actor whose work includes traditional and contemporary Inuit masks, sculpture and handcrafted knives. A Friends United artist since 2021, he also shares his knowledge through mentorship and collaborative carving projects.
About Eric Schweig
Masks, Sculpture and Knife-Making by Eric Schweig
Eric Schweig works across carving, sculpture and knife-making. His work includes traditional and contemporary Inuit masks, expressive carved forms and handcrafted knives, reflecting both his artistic practice and his continuing exploration of materials and carving traditions.
Work, Mentorship and Artistic Connections
Eric Schweig’s artistic practice extends beyond his own carving. Mentorship, learning and the sharing of knowledge are important parts of his connection with Friends United.
His relationship with Salish carver Gerry Sheena played an important role in bringing him to Friends United. In his biography, Eric explains that Gerry introduced him to Rolf Bouman and the Friends United initiative in 2018, before Eric formally joined Friends United in 2021.
Through his work and conversations with Friends United, Eric shares different aspects of his practice and experience—from art, heritage and healing to handcrafted knives, working with recycled steel, learning monumental carving techniques and taking part in broader conversations about culture and relationships.
Related Videos
Eric Schweig on Art, Heritage & Healing
In this extended conversation with Friends United founder Rolf Bouman, Eric Schweig reflects on art, heritage and healing, connecting his creative work with personal experience, identity and his journey as an Inuit artist.
Eric Schweig on Knife Making, Reclaimed Steel and Craftsmanship
In this extended conversation with Friends United founder Rolf Bouman, Eric Schweig talks about knife making, working with recycled steel and the craftsmanship behind his handmade knives.
Watch Eric Schweig on knife making and craftsmanship (30 min.)
Eric Schweig Learns Totem Pole Carving with Gerry Sheena
Eric Schweig reflects on learning totem pole carving alongside Salish woodcarver Gerry Sheena and on the knowledge, techniques and relationships connected with the carving process.
Explore Eric Schweig’s totem pole carving apprenticeship (16 min.)
Showing UP with Eric Schweig and Hereditary Chief Stephen Augustine
Eric Schweig joins Hereditary Chief Stephen Augustine in this Showing UP conversation, bringing together personal experience, Indigenous perspectives and the wider relationships at the heart of Friends United.
Watch Showing UP with Eric Schweig and Hereditary Chief Stephen Augustine (24 min.)