Riley McFerrin, the visionary founder of Hinterland Design, has an extraordinary ability to transform natural materials into enduring, functional pieces of art and his talents have reshaped the industry. His deep understanding of the interplay between design, materials, and end users shines through in every creation.
For over a decade, Riley has consistently demonstrated his commitment to crafting furniture and lighting that showcases the beauty of natural materials, resulting in aesthetically pleasing, durable works that evolve gracefully over time. Each piece emerging from Hinterland Design reflects a blend of creative vision and honed craftsmanship, a rare fusion in today’s design landscape.
Riley’s meticulous attention to detail and profound understanding of user experience ensure that his pieces not only withstand the test of time but also enhance the lives of those who engage with them. Beyond mastering woodworking, he serves as an inspiration for fellow craftsmen and artisans, seamlessly blending artistry, sustainability, and functionality in products that stand apart in the industry.
Renowned sculptor Marie Khouri’s work is a profound exploration of identity, belonging, and connection, blending traditional sculpting techniques with contemporary materials and innovative construction methods.
Born in Egypt and raised in Lebanon, Marie’s artistic journey mirrors her personal odyssey, reflecting themes of movement, community, and unity. Her unique immigrant perspective, cultivated during years spent across Europe before settling in Canada, resonates with diverse audiences, fostering a sense of togetherness through her sculptural creations.
With a background as a language interpreter and formal sculpture education at the prestigious L’Ecole du Louvre in Paris, Marie continually draws from the power of language to forge new connections through her art. Her work straddles the boundary between art and design, embracing the principles of form and function akin to the modernist ethos epitomized by the Bauhaus School.
Over the past two decades, Marie’s artwork has graced exhibitions across Europe and North America, and she has left an indelible mark with over 25 public sculptures in Canada and abroad, alongside numerous large-scale pieces held in private collections worldwide. Marie’s collaborative spirit shines as she collaborates closely with developers, architects, and community stakeholders to craft sculptures that authentically reflect and enhance the communities they inhabit.
Bridget Catchpole, a celebrated multidisciplinary artist renowned for her exceptional contemporary art jewellery, has garnered widespread recognition for her innovative work in the realm of wearable art. With a distinct artistic vision, Bridget stands out as a pioneer in the use of single-use plastics and marine debris, addressing critical issues such as material exploitation, consumerism, and climate change through her artistry.
Bridget’s art is truly transformative, demonstrating her unique ability to elevate everyday objects into captivating one-of-a-kind adornments. She consistently seeks inspiration through collaborations with esteemed international contemporary artists, pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Her recent achievements include various Canada Council for the Arts grants to support her recent body of work, Stages of Healing, a solo exhibition in Montréal, and an international artist residency in Athens, Greece, underscoring her contributions to British Columbia’s cultural economy. Bridget’s work implicitly speaks to the human condition, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and urgently calling for a re-evaluation of our relationship with discarded materials. Her creative vision not only celebrates her artistic passion but also serves as a powerful reminder of the pressing issues facing our world today.
Kate Metten‘s pottery is a testament to intuition and muscle memory found within each unique piece. An exceptional commitment and dedication to her craft have made her an emerging artistic force in the world of ceramics.
Her journey as a potter is characterized by her one-of-a-kind ceramics that resonate with spirit and soul. Her vessels, masterfully thrown and intricately glazed, are prized by a growing clientele for their exquisite craftsmanship. What sets Kate apart is her ability to infuse the ordinary with the extraordinary, transforming everyday objects into iconic art pieces.
Beyond her artistic prowess, Kate’s contributions to the cultural economy are noteworthy. She runs an atelier bridging the gap between artist and audience. Kate’s impact on the cultural economy extends beyond her own creations. She conducts workshops, mentors students, and curates exhibitions, providing emerging potters and craftspeople with exposure and opportunities. Her success becomes a legacy by which she passes on her knowledge and passion, inspired by the mentors who guided her own journey.
Kate is the third recipient of the Judson Beaumont Emerging Artist designation, named in honour of the late BC-based furniture designer.
Xwalacktun is an internationally renowned artist with roots in the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and Kwakwaka’wakw Nation (Alert Bay). His remarkable artistic career spans over 40 years, encompassing a wide range of mediums, from public art and sculpture to metalwork, jewelry, glasswork, drawing, printmaking, and his renowned wood carving. He seamlessly blends traditional Salish forms with contemporary expressions, a hallmark of his distinctive style.
His art has captivated collectors worldwide and graced exhibitions both locally and internationally. Xwalacktun’s creative journey began with a degree in sculpture from Emily Carr University of Art and Design. Xwalacktun has shared his talent in Scotland, promoting its totem pole project and demonstrating his carving techniques in several Scottish communities. He is an artist, an educator and a mentor whose practice nurtures many apprentices, including his sons.
He played a pivotal role in preserving Salish culture as a contributing artist for Simon Fraser University’s 2009 “A Journey into Time Immemorial.”
Xwalacktun’s artistic legacy is interwoven with his community involvement, attending local events, and offering cultural greetings. His numerous accolades include his 2022 Honorary Doctorate from Emily Carr University, the 2016 First Nations Art Award, and the 2012 Order of BC. His art adorns public spaces across Canada and internationally, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity.
Shawna Kiesman, an emerging artist from Victoria, is a testament to dedication and innovation in her craft. With a diverse heritage, including Ts’msyen, Nisga’a and Haida/German roots, Shawna’s artistic journey began at the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Arts and continued at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and supported by awards like the Audain Entrance Scholarship and BC Arts Council Scholarship.
As an emerging artist, Shawna’s post-graduation career is thriving, marked by grants and residencies, including the RBC Audain Museum Emerging Artist Program. Permanent collections such as the Nisga’a Museum and Coast Mountain College house and celebrate her work. Each piece is a means of cultural exploration and identity reclamation that delves into her Indigenous heritage. Shawna’s diverse portfolio includes digital art, textiles, drawing, and painting, and is known for its modernized take on everyday items. As a First Nations artist, she seeks to understand her ancestral culture and its complexities while ensuring its continuance and legacy.
Shawna was selected by the independent jury as the 2023 Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist.
The Crabtree McLennan Emerging Artist designation was established in 2019. Named in honour of Brenda Crabtree, former Director, Aboriginal Programs, and Special Advisor to the President on Indigenous Initiatives, Emily Carr University and the late Bill McLennan (1948-2020), Curator Emeritus, UBC Museum of Anthropology, this recognition aims to highlight and support emerging talent.
Klatle-bhi, a master carver, is celebrated for his exquisite red cedar masks and a diverse portfolio which encompasses panels and totem poles. With over three decades of experience, his carving has evolved, driven by a deep commitment to ancestral spirituality and culture. Klatle-bhi’s distinctive style seeks the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry. His roots in Squamish and Kwakwaka’wakw cultures are integral to his life, as he strives to preserve languages, dances, and songs.
A supporter of passing on traditions, Klatle-bhi not only creates art but also mentors the next generation of artists. His collaborations with Collingwood School in West Vancouver have produced meaningful totem poles representing academic, athletic, service, and artistic excellence.
Klatle-bhi’s contributions extend beyond the studio; he has sung, danced, spoken, and shared his art at numerous gatherings and potlatches. His works are displayed in the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City and the Burke Memorial Museum of Natural History in Seattle.
Musqueam artist Brent Sparrow developed his practice and artistry through apprenticeships with his mother, Susan A. Point, and John Livingston, adopted Kwakwaka’wakw artist and master carver. Collaborating with his mother, Brent played a pivotal role in creating and installing public art, gracing institutions like the Seattle Art Museum, City of Vancouver, City of Richmond, and Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Beyond these collaborative ventures, Brent’s portfolio boasts nearly two dozen large-scale public artworks, spanning bronze, glass, and cedar, while his private works grace collections and galleries. His art deeply roots itself in his Coast Salish heritage, respecting ancestral legacies and contributing to cultural preservation.
Educated at BCIT, he holds a provincial “B” Red Seal in welding, adding a necessary skill to his artistic tool kit. Recent achievements include the installation of cast bronze public art at the UBC Bus Exchange, symbolizing a warm Musqueam welcome to the UBC Vancouver campus.
Dwight Ballantyne is the driving force behind The Ballantyne Project: a youth-led initiative bridging the awareness gap between Indigenous communities and the rest of Canada while sparking social consciousness. Growing up in challenging circumstances in a northern First Nation in Saskatchewan for 21 years, Dwight’s relocation to BC in 2016 opened his eyes to the widespread lack of knowledge about life on First Nations reserves.
Launched in 2019, The Ballantyne Project was driven by his wish to inspire Indigenous youth in remote First Nations to pursue dreams and share their stories. The #WeSeeYou campaign was initiated to amplify voices from remote communities, breaking the invisibility barrier. Initially the project partnered with other organizations to establish an Entrepreneurship Program and has since evolved to hosting Indigenous youth from remote Indigenous communities during a twice-annual, week-long #WeSeeYou trip to Vancouver for an educational and life experience opportunity as one of the initiatives of the #WeSeeYou campaign.
Despite pandemic disruptions, Dwight adapted by delivering virtual presentations to schools and organizations nationwide, using his personal life experiences to raise awareness. His authenticity and vulnerability in sharing his story proved transformative. Dwight envisions expanding The Ballantyne Project’s impact through employing Indigenous youth and collaborating with an ever-growing team. With unyielding commitment, Dwight plans to expand his outreach, fostering connections with diverse communities and organizations. His journey, from a remote community to a beacon of change, highlights the power of shared narratives in transforming societal perceptions.
Totem Design House (TDH) stands as a trailblazing exemplar at the crossroads of Indigenous heritage and eco-conscious entrepreneurship. Founded in 2014 by Erin Brillon, an advocate for her Haida and Cree cultures, TDH has evolved from a modest start into a vibrant force. Rooted in Indigenous values, TDH is committed to crafting locally made, culturally authentic products that not only celebrate Northwest Coast art but also educate the wider world about Indigenous culture.
Erin’s commitment goes beyond commerce. As a social enterprise, TDH is dedicated to giving back to Indigenous communities. Through Copper Legacy Indigenous Empowerment Society, the company supports a range of projects and programs. TDH’s commitment to empowerment is evident in its exclusive employment of Indigenous staff and its focus on mentorship, with Erin taking a proactive role in coaching and supporting fellow Indigenous business owners.
By preserving cultural heritage, promoting eco-friendly practices, and empowering Indigenous communities, TDH stands as a beacon of responsible business practices. Erin’s visionary leadership and the team’s creative synergy have propelled TDH from a modest home-based enterprise to a dynamic and impactful force, leading the intersection of Indigenous art, environmentalism and socio-cultural empowerment.
