(1950 – Present, Kwakwaka’wakw)

Renowned Kwakwaka’wakw artist Bill Henderson is a well-respected master carver whose work is distinguished by his adherence to and respect for traditional designs, subjects, and techniques. Having been exposed to art and his father’s carving as a child, Bill created his first carvings when he was just seven years old. He began to work seriously when he was nineteen, first apprenticing under his father Chief Sam Henderson. Since his precocious beginnings, Bill is now well-versed in a variety of forms and he has exhibited his work across Canada and internationally. He is also a talented Kwaguilth dancer, which he credits with inspiring many of his carvings. Just like his father before him, Bill has taken upon himself the responsibility of educating future generations in the art of carving and traditional designs as he views his work as an integral part in the maintenance and regeneration of Kwakwaka’wakw culture.