Mike Russell Forbes

Mike Forbes is Haida and Coast Salish and grew up in Northern BC where he was immersed in native arts and culture. His roots trace back to Haida Gwaii, where his family is related to Haida Master Artist Charles Edenshaw. Currently residing with his family Shxwhá:y Village (Skway First Nation), Mike has been sketching and painting since he was a child. As a young boy, he visited the village of Skidegate, where he witnessed one of the last totem pole raisings of that era. He was mesmerized and inspired by the artwork he witnessed. From that day on, he has dedicated his life to being a practicing artist. Mike is best known for his glassware and his paintings. His artwork is featured in many galleries throughout BC, as well as in the traditional longhouses in the Fraser Valley.