William (Bill) Reid

A member of the Raven Clan, Bill Reid was an acclaimed master goldsmith, carver, sculptor, painter, writer, broadcaster, mentor, and activist. He had several Haida names including Yaahl Sgwansung (The Only Raven), Kihlguulins (Golden Voice), and Iljuwas (Princely One or Manly One). Reid is regarded as one of the most significant Northwest Coast artists and is particularly well known for completing monumental public sculptures. An advocate for ‘well-made objects’, something evident throughout his practice, Reid spent his life reconnecting himself with his Haida roots and ancestors. The oppressive measures of the Indian Act led to his being raised in Victoria without knowledge of his heritage. In his early twenties, Reid sought to correct this and engaged in lifelong efforts to preserve Haida culture.

In 1994 Reid was the recipient of the Order of British Columbia and the National Aboriginal Lifetime Achievement Award. He held honorary degrees from the University of British Columbia, the University of Toronto, the University of Victoria, the University of Western Ontario, and York University. He was also an elected member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. Reid frequently worked with the Royal British Columbia Museum and the University of British Columbia to restore totem poles. Vancouver’s Bill Reid Gallery is named for him and dedicated to celebrating First Nations Art and Culture.