Rande CookAlert Bay, British ColumbiaMulti-Media Artist Rande Cook (Kwa’kwa’ka’wakw) was born in 1977, in beautiful Alert Bay B.C. Canada. A small fishing village rich in culture and traditional values, located on Cormorant Island, along the Northeastern coast of Vancouver Island. Cook was raised by the strong teachings of his grandparents, Gus and Florence Matilpi. The Thunderbird, Sun, Kulus, Seagull and Sisiutul are his predominant family crest symbols. While growing up, Cook and his grandfather observed and discussed the traditional art forms of their Kwa’kwa’ka'wakw heritage. More specifically drawn to the ceremonial masks and the art of the potlatch. Cook holds chieftainships from his maternal side and his paternal side. From his father’s side he is from the Gigalgam (The First Ones). Making the Thunderbird (Kwanusila) the crest of the "Namgis (Nimpkish) tribe. From his mother’s side, he is from the Seagull (Hamatam) of the Ma'amtagila (Matilpi Village) tribe. Today, Cook continues to be involved in his community, culture, preserving Vancouver Island old growth rainforest, and as a public figure. He continues to hold his chieftainship and has hosted potlatch ceremonies for his family, celebrating culture and carrying on strong teachings while dedicating time in preserving his cultural roots. With knowing where his roots come from, Cook balances advancing his career so he may continue to share with the world his love for the arts and his love for his heritage. Rande Cook has currently completed the Master of Fine Arts program at the University of Victoria, completing his MFA as a graduate of 2021.