Brien Foerster was born in Rochester, Minnesota, U.S.A. but grew up on the west coast of Canada. At age 11, he became fascinated with the art of the Haida and other native people, and began carving totem poles, and other related art forms, learning from Native teachers. After completing an Honours Bachelor Of Science degree, Brien decided to take up carving and sculpture full time at the age of 25. This included the creation of 15 full size totem poles, dugout canoes, masks, bowls, boxes and other Native style works.