RANDE COOK
(Kwakwaka'wakw)
(Kwakwaka'wakw)
1. Symphony of Ecology, 2021. Salvaged red cedar, acrylic guache, (cedar boughs for installation), 5'x5'. 2. Grandmother Tree, 2021. Cedar, red cedar, cedar bark, paint, mother of pearl shell, 36” diameter.
STATEMENT
Growing up, I observed and discussed the traditional art forms with my grandfather. Through my grandparents, I learned about the values of life and culture, responsibilities of being a chief, and the importance of being a strong leader for my people. My studies began with learning from several master craftsmen in multiple mediums which lead to my 22 years of accumulated work experience. I believe in continually exploring and challenging myself with my traditional techniques and contemporary art-making.
Growing up, I observed and discussed the traditional art forms with my grandfather. Through my grandparents, I learned about the values of life and culture, responsibilities of being a chief, and the importance of being a strong leader for my people. My studies began with learning from several master craftsmen in multiple mediums which lead to my 22 years of accumulated work experience. I believe in continually exploring and challenging myself with my traditional techniques and contemporary art-making.
VIDEOS
Interview with artist and Hereditary Kwakwaka’wakw Chief Rande Cook. Leaf Modern Gallery, Victoria, B.C. May 2022.
BIOGRAPHY
Rande Cook is a hereditary Kwakwaka’wakw chief from Yalis (Alert Bay), and a visual artist working in sculpture, glass, jewellery, painting and printmaking. Rande recently completed his MFA from UVIC. His work is featured in collections in the US and Canada. Cook is passionate about preserving ancient forests on his territory, and around the world. His #TreeOfLife campaign is bringing renown artists and scientists together to raise awareness about the devastation of old growth cedars and the urgent need for protection of these endangered ecosystems. |