Born in Saskatchewan 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.
He 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.
In 1993 he 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, British Columbia. Here he completed an intensive and culturally engrossing four-year apprenticeship studying with master carver, Ken Mowatt. Both during and after his apprenticeship, Darren cultivated relationships with galleries on the West Coast where he enjoyed a reputation as an innovator.
For over thirty years Darren has developed and refined the skills demanded by traditional Northwest Coast wood carving. His intensive years of training and dedication to his art have allowed him to push the envelope into the contemporary realm. It’s here that he respectfully infuses the traditions of the past with his own present-day style.
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.
