Brian Tripp

(American | Karuk, born 1945, died 2022)

Native American artist Brian Tripp (Karuk, 1945-2022) created mixed media artworks that blend abstract and geometric patterns inspired by Karuk basketry and regalia, with commentary on the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. He was committed to preserving Karuk heritage and advocating for Indigenous rights.

Tripp grew up in Klamath, Northern California. He was a traditional dancer and singer carrying on the ceremonies of the Karuk Tribe of Northern California. After serving in the Vietnam War, Tripp became more interested in his own culture. Tripp studied art at Humboldt State University in California, where he later taught art during the 1970s and 1980s. In 2018, he received the California Living Heritage Award from the Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA). His powerful mixed media art is in museum collections across the U.S.