Biography

Just 13 years ago, a young man stared out into the Pacific Ocean, lamenting the death of his uncle just days before. His gaze was distracted only by a floating piece of cedar, little bigger than his hand. Michael still can’t explain why, but something inspired him to rescue the driftwood from its watery fate. He pulled out a pocket knife and began to carve.

His parents were astonished that their son, who had never shown any such inclination, was now able to create such a beautifully crafted carving with no instruction. And yet his late uncle had enjoyed such a skill. They thanked his uncle's spirit for passing on his talent in the afterlife.

Michael Price was born August 3rd. 1975 in Campbell River, BC. His father is a member of the Lekwiltok First Nation at Cape Mudge, Quadra Island, BC. Michael’s mother is from Village Island, BC. - The Mamalillikula Band.

The Mamalilikulla and Lekwiltok are native bands within the Kwakiultl Nation (also know as Kwagiulth). The Kwakiutl is traditionally Kwakwaka speaking, so are also referred to as being Kwakwaka'wakw.