William Henderson JR. Killer Whale Paddle

 

kwakwaka'wakw carver William Henderson Jr was born and raised in Campbell River British Columbia. He began carving at the age of 24 and hasn't looked back since. His role models are his grandfather renowned Master Carver Sam Henderson Sr, who comes from Nakwa'dakw Blunden Harbour. His father Renowned Master Carver Bill Henderson and his older cousin Junior Henderson.

In the past few years William has started creating pieces for use during traditional potlatch ceremonies. William enjoys carving and watching his carvings come alive through song and dance and he will continue on making more ceremonial pieces for all the people of the potlatch world.

William was initialed through his father Bill into the sacred Hamatsa society when he was 27 years old. William actively participates in feats and potlatches that are hosted by his family, and is frequently invited to help other families. William helps keep the culture alive through dance, singing on the log, being an attendant at potlatches or rigging up masks for dancers. William puts his hear into keeping his culture alive.

Following his fathers footsteps of always giving back and keeping the culture alive William enjoys teaching the local kids in the community how to sing and dance. He volunteers every week at the local preschool to help lead the kids in song and dance in preparation of their yearly performances. he also frequents his own children's classrooms to show them masks or to teach them new and old traditional songs. William enjoys telling stories through his skills as a carver and he will continue to follow his heart and carve.