I’ve had the pleasure to paint Al West’s portrait years before. He isn’t getting any younger, now 83 years old. Al can’t hear well but he still tells a mean story and is a Namgis treasure. I met him years ago through friend Terry Shepherd who’s sister in law is Al’s niece, Lorelei Lauten. Terry mentioned Alert Bay in glowing terms once too often and so I finally made the trip. Alert Bay has been a favourite place to visit ever since. This time my son Kyle and I were on our way to Cape Scott. Alert Bay is the home of the great late Kwakwaka’wakw artist, Beau Dick. It is one of the most impressive villages of the west coast; I highly recommend a visit!
