Drew Michael, of Yup’ik and Inupiaq descent, was born in Bethel, Alaska, and raised in Eagle River with his twin brother. He began carving at age 13, mentored by archaeologist Bob Shaw, printmaker Joe Senungetuk, and Athabascan mask-maker Kathleen Carlo. Developing his own style, Drew studied master carvers and refined his craft through diligent research and experimentation. His masks, rooted in Yup’ik traditions of storytelling and healing, also integrate elements of European Christian iconography, embodying a fusion that promotes balance and healing—mirroring his personal journey. Drew aims to inspire similar transformations in others through his artistic expression.