Forbes, Michael

Heritage:

Michael Forbes is a Haida artist who was born in Chilliwack, British Columbia. He grew up in Northern BC where he was immersed in native arts and culture. He descends from the Stanley family of Masset on Haida Gwaii (formerly Queen Charlotte Islands). Master carver Charles Edenshaw is one of the talented artists among his family.

Michael 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, he has dedicated his life to being an artist.

Michael is best known for his paintings and sandblasted glassware. His artwork is featured in many galleries throughout BC, as well as in the traditional longhouses in the Fraser Valley.