A Vancouver-based, mother and son Musqueam First Nation artist team, Susan Point and Thomas Cannell are professional artists with more than 40 years’ experience combined.
Susan Point
Dr. Susan Point, O.C., RCA is a descendant of the Musqueam. Susan's distinct style has inspired a crusade in Coast Salish art. She draws creativity from her ancestors' stories and forged the use of non-traditional materials and techniques, therefore inspiring generations of artists. Susan is proud to be an Officer of the Order of Canada and has been gifted with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her continual contributions to Canada. In 2020, Susan was conferred Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of Arts and Literature)—Order of France, French Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
Visit Susan Point's website
ʔəyx̓ wacəlenəxw - Thomas Cannell
xʷməθkʷəy̓əm – Musqueam Thomas Cannell's influential award-winning artworks are deeply rooted in the natural environment of the places he's experienced and the traditional values he inherited from his ancestors and teachers. His connection to his family and friends in their traditional xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) homeland is a constant source of inspiration and influence in his art. Thomas's journey in art is a testament to his dedication and passion. He explored graphic design and photography at Langara College and graduated from Capilano University's Outdoor Recreation Management program in 2005. However, his true artistry was honed under the guidance of his mother, renowned artist Susan A. Point, and the late John Livingston, a Kwakwaka'wakw artist.
Thomas has taken the ancient Coast Salish visual language, which evolves from generation to generation, and adapted it into his modern-day xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Art. Thomas's artistic influence extends beyond galleries and exhibitions. He has created nearly 30 public artworks throughout southwestern BC since 2009, each a testament to his creativity and skill. His works are prominently displayed in galleries in Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle, as well as in tours in Canadian and American exhibitions and catalogue publications. BC Ferry travelers are greeted by his elegant design, Salish Raven, which links the Gulf Islands.
Thomas's service on the British Columbia Arts Council and the Vancouver Arts and Culture Council during the twenty-tens, and his numerous awards, including the British Columbia Creative Achievement Award (2014) and the City of Richmond Artistic Innovation Award (2022) are a testament to his artistic innovation and leadership. In 2019, Thomas was a City of Richmond Cultural Leadership Award Finalist. Thomas is proud to be a recipient of His Majesty King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025.
Visit Thomas Cannell's website
