CULTURAL GROUP:
Haida

BORN:
May 6, 1961

BIRTHPLACE:
Prince Rupert, BC

Andy Wesley is from the Skidegate band of the House of Hagbegwatku. His crest is Killerwhale. His father, Tom Hans, is a Haida argillite carver. Andy has a background in carpentry, and he attended both Capilano College and Tradeworks Carpentry School. In 1984, he attended the Native Art course at the Museum of Prince Rupert, BC, where he learned mask carving from Kwakwaka'wakw artist Carl Simeon. He carves mainly in red and yellow cedar, and specializes in masks. In 1989, Andy worked closely with Tony Gulbrandson, and has also worked with Alvin Adkins and Ron Wesley.