ALFRED DAVIDSON IV

Alfred Davidson IV

Cultural Background: Haida, Masset, Haida Gwaii, BC

Alfred Davidson IV was born and raised in the village of Masset on Haida Gwaii BC. The Haida are a matrilineal people and like his mother, Alfred is from the T’saahl Laanaas eagle clan of Masset, BC. He comes from a long line of traditional Haida artists on both his father and mother’s side. Alfred grew up in his father’s carving room observing and learning the rules of Haida art, cedar carving and argillite carving. He uses traditional Haida formline and creates art works using various multimedia formats. His skills include designing, painting, wood carving, metal engraving, and regalia making. Alfred enjoys mixing traditional designs with none traditional colours and new mediums. 
From 2012-2014, Alfred apprenticed under well known Haida artist Lyle Campbell. During his apprenticeship, he continued to learn about traditional Haida formline designs, painting and wood carving. Alfred also had some mentorship under the master carver Robert Davidson, where he learned how to design. Alfred has attended many art institutions such as the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art, Native Education College, Emily Carr University of Art & Design and the Aboriginal Canadian Entrepreneurs Program for Artists.