Phyllis Atkins (q̓wɑti̓cɑ̓)

Phyllis Atkins (q̓wɑti̓cɑ̓) is a member of qʼʷa:n̓ƛʼən̓ (Kwantlen) First Nation, and her traditional name means “I wear the clouds like a blanket.” She is the founder, co-owner, and lead artist of K'wy'i'y'e Spring Salmon Studio. She is also the Manager and Board Director at Stalew Arts & Culture Society. Atkins was taught how to paint by Barbara Boldt at the Barbara Boldt Original Art Studio and studied with her for many years until she opened her own studio in 2012. In 2001, she learned the art of hand-engraving jewelry from the late Master carver Derek Wilson from Haisla, BC. Atkins often practices art in collaboration with her family. She created Our Roots Run Deep together with her son Noah Atkins.