Born in 1955 in Shelton, Washington, Andy Peterson is a member of the Skokomish (Twana) tribe, a group of Salish-speaking people living on the Hood Canal. As a teenager, he helped gather materials with two well-known basket-makers, Louisa Pulsifer and Emily Miller. Through this experience and inspired by a tour of a museum exhibiting Northwest Coast art, Andy began exploring the art in its various forms. In 1987, Andy graduated from Evergreen State College with a degree in Native American Studies. While there, he worked with Makah artist, Greg Colfax on a 12' female welcoming figure for the Evergreen State College. This project prompted his interest in researching Coast Salish style, design and carving. He also studied Salish art pieces made by his great grandfather, Henry Allen. Andy has taught both carving and painting classes over the years to people of all ages through various tribes and local schools.