Xwalacktun Rick Harry

Internationally recognized Sḵwx̱wú7mesh artist, Xwalacktun O.B.C., was born and raised in Squamish and carries with him the rich ancestries of his father (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation) and mother (Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw Nation). He was given his Indigenous name by his father, Pekultn, who was a hereditary chief, originally from the Seymour Creek area in North Vancouver. Xwalacktun attended Emily Carr University and Capilano College and credits both with helping him acquire skills in starting his career. His endurance and deep commitment to community has propelled his practice as an artist. He has received numerous honors and awards including an Honorary Doctorate from Emily Carr University (2022), the BC Achievement Foundation Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement (2016), the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013), and the Order of British Columbia (2012).

Healing, growth, and raising awareness of the environment are central themes in Xwalacktun’s work. His focus on traditional stories and lived experiences uphold the ways that ancient knowledge can be called upon to help heal individuals and community.