The tradition of the Coast Salish culture nourished the creativity of Francis Horne. It was here that he first experienced the songs and dances of his people and grew to appreciate the beauty and subtlety of his Native heritage. Francis is a self-taught artist who gained his knowledge and mastery of carving and design through study and admiration of the work of respected artists such as Mungo Martin, Bill Reid and Simon Charlie.
Every carving and graphic produced by his hand is a unique creation that reflects his Native tradition and love of nature. The contemporary approach used by Francis allows him the freedom to merge traditional style with his own vision. As well as being a father of five children, Francis shares his skills and knowledge with interested young carvers and produces his art full-time.
Francis has become an internationally acclaimed artist with pieces in private and corporate collections around the world. He completed a major carving for the Canadian Commission in Singapore; a pole for the Stanley Park Children’s Zoo in Vancouver; and the city of Duncan, B.C. is home to five poles created by Francis. One of these is an entrance pole, on e of very few carved or raised in many years. Francis also has work in collections in Japan, Germany, Switzerland as well as many pieces installed in various cities in Canada and the United States.