William Ronald Reid Jr., known as Bill Reid, was a prominent Haida artist born on January 12, 1920, and who passed away on March 13, 1998. Over the course of his extensive fifty-year career, Reid created more than a thousand original pieces, solidifying his status as a key figure in the art scene of the Northwest Coast during the latter part of the 20th century.
Reid's artistic repertoire included a diverse array of mediums such as jewelry, sculpture, screen-printing, and painting, through which he explored and celebrated the cultural heritage of the Haida people. His works have garnered widespread acclaim for their intricate craftsmanship and deep cultural significance. Among his notable achievements, Reid played a pivotal role in the resurgence of Haida art and was instrumental in educating the public about Indigenous culture.
Reid's contributions to the art world were recognized with numerous awards, including his appointment as an Officer of the Order of British Columbia (OBC) and his election to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts (RCA). His legacy endures through his exceptional body of work, which continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, as well as through the lasting impact he made in promoting Indigenous art and identity.
