Darren Yelton

Born in North Vancouver, BC, in 1961, Darren Yelton began carving at the age of thirteen, learning alongside his father and brothers, Jim and Tony. After completing high school, he pursued carving full-time, studying under his father and Marvin Dana Baker, both from the Squamish Nation. The following year, he joined the Thunderbird Park Carving Program as a totem pole carver, a position he held until 1986, when he began working as an independent artist.

Throughout his career, Darren has developed a distinctive West Coast style, drawing inspiration from the animal figures, family crests, stories and legends of the Coast Salish community. His work combines refined forms, dimensional detail and a contemporary approach, with influences from the northern Northwest Coast. Through his carving, Darren brings these traditional stories and cultural influences into his own artistic expression.

Darren Yelton's work is collected internationally and reflects his dedication to the quality and craftsmanship of his art. Through both his artwork and teachings, he continues to contribute to the preservation and sharing of his cultural traditions with future generations.