Troy Kwaseesthala

Troy Kwaseesthala is a First Nations artist with ancestral ties to the Chiefs of the Wei Wai Kum Nation. Deeply connected to his native culture from an early age, Troy learned the traditional dances and stories of his people under the mentorship of the late Elizabeth Kwaksistala. Although he has explored various careers, including boxing, his passion for carving has defined the last 20 years of his life, leading him to reconnect with his cultural heritage.

In 1993, Troy was involved in the creation of the canoe “KlineeQwala” (Lightning Speed) and was part of the crew (stern-most figure) who paddled it from Campbell River to the Qatuwas Festival in Bella Bella, a distance of approximately 270 miles. Today, Troy’s career as a freelance carver is flourishing, with many of his works featured in private collections and museums across North America.