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                             Haida Artist Biography

                                               Tony Greene is a Haida artist from the Naa Saagaas X̲aaydaG̲aay Clan of Skidegate,                                                    Haida Gwaii. His artistic journey began in childhood, inspired by his mother, Roberta                                                        Olson, who was an artist herself. As a young boy, Tony developed his skills by drawing                                                    cartoons and muscle cars, cultivating a natural talent for visual storytelling.In his                                                            teenage years, Tony returned from Vancouver Island to his hometown of Skidegate — a                                                pivotal moment that deepened his connection to Haida culture and sparked a passion                                                for traditional Haida art. From 1989 to 1990, he apprenticed with Robert Davidson, a master carver and one of the most influential contemporary Haida artists. Under Davidson’s mentorship, Tony learned the foundations of formline design, carving, and the cultural responsibilities of being a Haida artist.

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Tony’s artistic evolution continued in 2000 when he began apprenticing with James “Bussy” McGuire, a respected Haida jewelry carver. Through this experience, Tony gained new skills in fine metalwork and engraving — expanding his practice to include metal carving, alongside drawing, painting, and woodwork.

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Today, Tony creates traditional Haida designs across a range of mediums including drums, carved wood, woven cedar, and jewelry. His work is deeply inspired by the natural and cultural landscape of Haida Gwaii — especially sacred sites such as SG̱ang Gwaay Llnaagay (Ninstints), an ancient village and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gwaii Haanas. These surroundings continue to inform the themes, stories, and forms present in his art.

Outside of his creative practice, Tony works professionally as a logger, maintaining a strong relationship with the land through both work and culture. In his free time, he volunteers with Skidegate Elders, sharing in community life and intergenerational knowledge. He is also an avid golfer.

Tony Greene continues to live and work in Skidegate, Haida Gwaii, where he creates art that reflects his heritage, environment, and lifelong commitment to Haida culture. His work bridges traditional craftsmanship with personal expression, offering a deeply rooted and evolving perspective within contemporary Indigenous art.

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If you would like to order art from Tony Greene,  please send us an email.