The Haisla Nation is mourning the loss of celebrated hereditary chief Sammy Robinson, a master carver, storyteller, dancer and guide, who died on Feb. 11 at the age of 86.
A member of the Beaver Clan, Robinson was a lifelong advocate for Haisla (x虅谩91裸聊视频檌sla) traditions in Northwest B.C., preserving them through his carvings, teachings and performances. His influence spanned generations, shaping the cultural identity of his people and bringing their artistry to a global audience.
Haisla Nation Council expressed profound sorrow at his passing, calling him a leader whose impact would be felt for generations to come.
91裸聊视频淗e was not only the highest-ranking chief of our community but also an internationally acclaimed artist and master carver whose creations have brought immense pride and recognition to the Haisla people,91裸聊视频� the statement read. 91裸聊视频淗is artistry, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our Nation have established a deep and lasting legacy that will be treasured for generations.91裸聊视频�
Robinson91裸聊视频檚 artistic journey began nearly 80 years ago when, as a child, he watched the 91裸聊视频渙ld people91裸聊视频� carving. He believed that while carving techniques could be taught, the art itself had to come from within. 91裸聊视频淚t91裸聊视频檚 my life. It keeps me alive. It inspires me in everything,91裸聊视频� he once said.
Born into a family of carvers, he inherited the title h铆mas c虛esi from his brother, Tom Robinson, dedicating his life to preserving Haisla culture through intricate carvings in cedar, silver and gold. His pieces, sought after by collectors, museums, governments and corporations worldwide, told the stories of his people. His work gained early recognition when he won a First Nations art award at the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver in 1963. He later served as a special carving dignitary at Expo 67 in Montreal and became a resident carver on-site at the 1970 Olympic Games. In 2013, he was honoured with the BC Achievement Foundation91裸聊视频檚 Fulmer Award for First Nations Art, cementing his place as one of the country91裸聊视频檚 most respected Indigenous artists.
Over the last decade, Robinson introduced his signature three-dimensional carving style, which became a hallmark of his later pieces. His work continued to captivate, with his last show selling out before it even opened.
Beyond his carvings, Robinson was a dancer, storyteller and linguist fluent in Haisla. His passion for cultural preservation led him to showcase First Nations traditions internationally, including leading a dance troupe to Malaysia.
When he wasn91裸聊视频檛 carving, which was rare, Robinson worked as a commercial fisherman. After Alcan came to the Douglas Channel in the early 1950s, he also worked at the smelter. He later ran fishing charters, earning a reputation as a highly sought-after guide due to his deep knowledge of the land and waters. He cherished memories of clients reeling in record-breaking catches, including one who nearly collapsed from excitement after landing a 76-pound salmon. His love for the ocean and its stories mirrored his passion for carving91裸聊视频攂oth integral parts of his life.
Flags have been lowered across the region in tribute. Neighbour to the Haisla Nation's Kitamaat Village, the District of Kitimat ordered its flags to half-mast, while the Kitimat Firefighters Association said they were 91裸聊视频減rofoundly saddened91裸聊视频� by his passing, stating that his 91裸聊视频渓egacy of strength, inspiration, and cultural pride left a lasting impact on the Haisla Nation and surrounding communities.91裸聊视频� The Board of Education Office has also lowered its flags at half-mast until his funeral service.
Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth reflected on Robinson91裸聊视频檚 enduring contributions, calling him a 91裸聊视频減illar of the x虅谩91裸聊视频檌sla community.91裸聊视频�
91裸聊视频淗e lived a storied life full of adventure and accomplishment, and we were privileged for any occasion he could attend with us,91裸聊视频� Germuth said. 91裸聊视频淢ost recently, we were happy he could join us during our celebration of the Haisla Bridge for a blessing of the new structure along with the community. Especially for what the bridge represents, it was an honour to have him there.
91裸聊视频淗e will be sorely missed, and his loss will be felt. We will endeavour to balance that grief with the joyful memories of his life, his gifts, and the legacy he leaves with us. To his family, his friends, and to the whole of the x虅谩91裸聊视频檌sla community, we honour his life and share our condolences.91裸聊视频�
With files from Thom Barker
