Samuel Albany

My name is Sam Albany. I am blessed to come from two strong First Nation families. My father is Gary Albany from Coast Salish Songhees Nation in Victoria, BC. My grandparents are the late Chief John Albany and Margaret Albany. My mother is Maggie Henderson from the Weiwaikum First Nation in Campbell River, BC. My grandparents are the late Sam Henderson and May Henderson. I have 2 daughters, Tyara and Sydana, that are the light of my life. they are fortunate enough to be close to my family here in Campbell River where I reside also. Both my daughters are very much involved in our culture and traditions and I am so very proud of them both.

"I consider my art work to be the best of 2 worlds" Coast Salish and Kwakwaka'wakw

I started at the age of 16 during my high school art classes, then started to follow my uncles and cousins that are also carvers. Some of my influences being Bill Henderson, Jr Henderson and Greg Henderson, Curtis Wilson and more. They have been a great support and teachers for me along with my big sister helping me feel more confident n my creations as time went on. One thing I have learned since carving is there is always room for improvement and you can only get better. My sister always says, "if it speaks to you, you know you did good".

Today, I love bringing the two different style together in my work, and I know my parents and grandparents are proud of me for bringing the two together. It shows my children where we come from and how blessed we are today to still have our culture and language and how we must continue with our traditions as a people for our future generations. "I love what I do".

Gilakas'la