Artists (selection)
Robert Davidson *1946
Haida
Robert Davidson is one of the most outstanding Native artists in Canada, and one of the leading figures in the renaissance of Haida art and culture. Born in Hydaberg, Alaska, he grew up in the village of Masset on the Queen Charlotte Islands. At age thirteen he began to learn carving from his father Claude and his grandfather Robert Davidson, Sr. His great-grandfather was the famous Haida carver Charles Edenshaw. In 1966, he met Haida artist Bill Reid and became the latter’s apprentice. In 1967, Reid attended the Vancouver School of Art where he studied painting, graphic arts, carving, as well as gold and silver working. In 1969 he raised a totem pole on the Queen Charlotte Islands – the first such pole made in about 90 years. His works are represented in many private and public collections. In 1995 he was given the National Achievement Award in appreciation of his contribution to Native American art and culture. In addition, he has been awarded honorary doctorates by several universities. He was decorated with the Order of British Columbia, and became a member of the Order of Canada in 1996.
