The word is finally getting out that Haida Gwaii now hosts one of the most robust art scenes in the world. Famous artists like Bill Reid, Robert Davidson, Reg Davidson, and Jim Hart have already established traditional Haida art on the global art scene, but equally interesting are the hundreds of local artists, both native and white, working away on carvings, paintings, pottery, glass and other materials unique to the island.

The Misty Isles Economic Development Society have created a special brochure (http://www.gohaidagwaii.ca/what-to-do/art-route-tour) for travellers keen on discovering what makes Haida Gwaii unique. A tour of local studios is a real eye-opener.

Begin in pretty little Queen Charlotte City where nearly two-dozen artists and galleries are open to the public. In his studio artist Brian Eccles (www.charlottegraphics.ca) works with clay, silver and "found items" from the natural environment.

At Spruce Point Lodge Nancy Hett performs wonders with clay. Check out Queen B's Gallery and Café and the Purple Onion Deli for other artists.

A visit to the Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay and its longhouses, totem poles and major galleries is compulsory. The little village of Skidegate itself offers several carvers and weavers open to public visits. A short drive up the spectacular east coast brings the visitor to Tlell; hidden in the woods are a dozen professional artists whose work can be seen at Sitka Studios, or on the walls at the 'don't miss' Rising Tide Bakery where owners Kris and Ralph Leach promote the best local work.

Masset and its adjoining village of Old Masset may boast more artists per capita than anywhere in Canada. Be sure to visit with Haida weaver Christine Carty (250-55-5531). Working mainly on special order, Carty harvests red and yellow cedar bark from nearby forests, hanging the strips to dry before hand weaving her ceremonial headgear with traditional Haida patterns.

In Old Masset a visit to the studio of Sarah's Haida Arts and Jewellery is a real shock. Here argillite sculptures of master artists such as Donny Edenshaw (who requires a year to hand carve an order) fetch prices up to $18,000. Owner Sarah Hillis estimates there are 200-300 artists producing art on Haida Gwaii, and that 90 per cent of the adult population is busy painting or sculpting in the long and rainy winter months.

For more Michael McCarthy travel stoies log on to www.i-traveler.info.