William (Bill) Reid
(12 January 1920 – 13 March 1998)
Bill Reid was an acclaimed Haida goldsmith, carver, sculptor, writer and spokesman, and one of Canada’s leading artists. A pivotal force in introducing the world to the art traditions of the indigenous people of the Northwest Coast, his work combined First Nation’s traditions with modern ideas and forms of expression and has influenced countless emerging artists. Bill Reid is perhaps best know for his three large bronze sculptures; The Spirit of Haida Gwaii, which is depicted on the Canadian $20 bill, The Jade Canoe at the Vancouver International Airport, and Chief of the Undersea World installed in front of the Vancouver Aquarium.