Ya’Ya Heit started carving in 1973 under the mentorship of his uncle, Walter Harris. While an apprentice, Ya’Ya attended the Kitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art. After graduation, he was asked to become an instructor at the school. Working on his uncle’s commissions, Ya’Ya was soon receiving commissions of his own, often travelling throughout North America and always returning to his home in Kispiox. Internationally recognized for his work, Ya’Ya’s carvings are inspired by his own life and experiences.
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