About the Artist

I feel closest to my Creator when I express myself through sculpting with natural objects. The physical and mental acts one engages in to create art put me in touch with the ancestral spirits that pervade my everyday thoughts.  

My work is a manifestation of the gifts that my Creator has bestowed upon me, as well as a symbol of my gratitude for these gifts.

-Darren McKenzie

DarrenAt WFNFair2

Art Education

Born in Saskatchewan, Canada, and a member of Cowessess First Nation, Darren discovered his creative voice early in life. In high school, he studied under the mentorship of acclaimed Prairie artist Wilf Perreault, who encouraged his natural talent and helped him develop a strong foundation in illustration and painting.

Darren went on to pursue a well-rounded art education that deepened both his technical skills and cultural perspective:

  • Medicine Hat College (1980–82): Commercial Art
  • University of Regina (1983–84): Indian Art History
  • Ontario College of Art (1985–86): Illustration and Sculpture

These formative years provided the groundwork for Darren’s artistic journey—a practice rooted in craftsmanship, cultural awareness, and a lifelong exploration of visual storytelling.

 

Indigenous Carving

In 1993 Darren began carving wood under the tutelage of Salish artist, Gerry Sheena. He connected quickly with this traditional art form, and became passionate about advancing his carving skills.

He soon had the privilege of attending the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art and Design in Hazelton, B.C. Here he completed an intensive and culturally engrossing four-year apprenticeship, studying with master carver, Ken Mowatt.

 

Darren McKenzie and Ken Mowatt

Gallery Representation

Both during and following his apprenticeship, Darren cultivated long-standing relationships with galleries on the West Coast and enjoyed a reputation as an innovator.

Several of Darren's current works in progress are part of the Friends United Initiative honouring the culture and heritage of North American Indigenous peoples. They can be viewed at the Friends United International Convention Centre Complex.

Work on display at Artropolis 1997, Vancouver, B.C.

Master Carver

An Indigenous artist with an understanding of advanced design, master technical applications, and cultural wisdom, Darren believes it’s important to pass on this knowledge to succeeding generations. He also seeks opportunities to use art as a bridge to connect with other cultures.

Darren currently resides in Kelowna, BC where he continues to create art.

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