Haida Artist, Melanie Russ

Meet Haida Artist, Melanie Russ

View our collection of artworks by Melanie Russ. 

melanie russ haida artist

Discover the captivating world of the Haida Artist, Melanie Russ. Immerse yourself in rich cultural expressions through Melanie's indigenous art. Explore now & be inspired!

Melanie Russ is the daughter of the late Haida artists, Faye Russ and Ed Russ, and is originally from Skidegate, Haida Gwaii.

Her father began teaching her to carve when she was a very young girl and though he passed away some time ago, she expresses the feeling that he is still with her, guiding her, reminding her to look at the rough argillite, then to close her eyes and a design will come. Her late mother Faye was also instrumental in her education as an artist and was a potent influence in her creative process, often working on sculptures together. Her work is a depiction of the classic iconography of her Haida lineage.

Melanie has an exquisite command for detail and hand-finishing as you can see in the final carvings details, formline, cross-hatching and texturing of her pieces.

Melanie is one of few women Haida carvers and is known for her intricate detail in jewelry and carvings.

Select Art Highlights:

2024

Upcoming shows: Women Carvers of the Northwest Coast Exhibition, Audain Art Museum, November 16, 2024 - May 5, 2025

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VIEW OUR COLLECTION OF ARTWORKS BY MELANIE RUSS