Bert Smith is a Kwakwaka’wakw artist from the Twowitsis Band of Turnour Island. Born to Elvis & Heather Smith, he currently resides in Campbell River, BC. with his wife and his daughter Whitney.

“I began my carving interest at the age of 15. I was drawn back to carving after high school, and began studying my culture, and apprenticing with Master Carver Chief Bill Henderson. I have had the honor of carving a few masks for recent potlatches, and have assisted Jr. Henderson carve a memorial totem pole for his grandfather.”

Bert was initiated into the secret society of the hamasta, in 2003.

Though Bert’s work has been featured for the last few years at the Campbell River Museum, he has just recently permitted his work outside of Canada: Des chutes Gallery Opening (2001) and Henderson Art Exhibit Quintana Galleries, Portland, Oregon (Nov. 2003).

“I feel blessed to be able to revive my culture, and for being taught the ancient ways of my ancestors.”