A Kwakwaka’wakw artist from Alert Bay, Cole Speck brings both deep cultural roots and contemporary vision to the world of Northwest Coast art. Raised on the ‘Namgis reserve, Cole began carving as a teenager and carries the artistic legacy of his great grandfather, Chief John Speck, and the late Henry Speck Sr. Under the mentorship of master carvers Beau Dick and Wayne Alfred, Cole refined his craft and emerged as a dynamic voice in Indigenous art — reverent of tradition, yet unafraid to innovate.
Cole’s influence has reached far beyond BC’s coast. He has carved poles for exhibitions in Holland, performed in Athens for the opening of documenta 14, and represented his community and mentor Beau Dick in Germany. His work has also been exhibited in New York and Brazil, amplifying Indigenous stories and practices to global audiences. In 2020, Cole was named the Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist, a recognition of his outstanding talent, cultural dedication, and rising impact in the art world.