John Rombough, a Denesuline Ancestral artist from Sioux Lookout, Northern Ontario, was adopted by a loving family on Prince Edward Island. Surrounded by creativity and support, he nevertheless felt a deep pull towards his roots. This drive led him to Lutsel K’e on Great Slave Lake, reconnecting him with his birth family and Dene heritage.
John’s art, inspired by the contemporary woodland style of Norval Morrisseau, features bold black contours and vivid colors that celebrate the spiritual bond between the Dene people and the natural world.
His paintings, often part of larger series, narrate unique tales of landscapes, tree lines, and rock formations.
In his creative process, John follows no strict guidelines, allowing colors and shapes to emerge freely, reflecting his profound connection to the land.
More than just an artist, John dedicates himself to his community by mentoring youth. As a recognized role model in the Northwest Territories, his work transcends artistry, embodying messages of respect, compassion, and the significance of embracing one's heritage.
Trevor Hunt, born in 1975, is a Kwakwaka'wakw artist from Fort Rupert, British Columbia, and a member of the renowned Hunt family. His lineage has played a pivotal role in preserving Kwakwaka'wakw art, with his father, Stan Hunt, his grandfather Henry Hunt, and great-grandfather Mungo Martin all contributing to the survival of their cultural heritage. From a young age, Trevor was immersed in this artistic tradition, starting his journey as a painter at 13 and later honing his carving skills under the guidance of his father and other family members.
Trevor's personal artistic style enhances traditional Kwakwaka'wakw form lines with his own use of bold and vibrant colors. This distinctive approach revitalizes traditional symbols and narratives, maintaining their cultural significance while introducing a fresh, contemporary perspective.
Throughout his career, Trevor has carved over 25 totem poles, including one that stands in the Port Hardy Arena, and has had his work exhibited internationally, including in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Michelle Stoney, an artist from Hazelton, BC, skillfully blends the complex form lines of Gitxsan art with the vibrant colors of Cree designs. Influenced from a young age by her grandfather and great uncle, both revered Gitxsan artists, Michelle was immersed in her cultural artistic traditions early on. She further developed her skills and refined her distinctive style at Emily Carr University of Art and Design. This education helped her create a personal approach that seamlessly combines traditional elements with her own creative interpretations.
Michelle’s impact goes beyond her art. She’s deeply committed to her community, leading workshops and cultural camps that inspire and teach young Indigenous artists to express their heritage creatively.
Her murals, displayed in public spaces, enhance community engagement and cultural appreciation. Michelle's creations do more than decorate a space—they connect viewers to her culture and invite them to explore the stories and traditions embedded in her pieces.
Glen Rabena, born in Wapato, WA, began working in the Haida style of Northwest Coast art in 1970 and later studied at the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Art at K’san. In 1987, Glen was adopted into the Haida Eagle Clan by Hereditary Chief Claude Davidson, an honor that deepened his connection to Haida culture.
Glen’s artistic range includes serigraphy, intricate carvings, and detailed illustrations.
His bird illustrations from The Birds of K’san, featured on our candles, are notable for blending traditional Haida form lines with intricate wildlife depictions.
Glen’s work also includes engravings in silver and gold, as well as painting on wood and hide. His art incorporates traditional Haida imagery blended with his distinct style to create pieces that honor cultural heritage while showcasing his personal creativity.
