Susan Point

Born 1952, Vancouver, BC, Musqueam Nation.

Susan Point has emerged as one of the foremost First Nations artists in Canada, and one of only a few female artists working on the Northwest Coast. She is also the most distinguished living Coast Salish artist, interpreting the traditional forms of her people within diverse contemporary contexts in a variety of media. Susan’s work is a major focus at the Vancouver International Airport, and her more traditionally based large-scale carvings can be seen on permanent display at the University of British Columbia’s Museum of Anthropology (MOA).  Susan’s work can also be found in private, corporate and public collections in over 20 countries around the world.

Susan initially began producing fine art in precious metals, serigraphs and acrylic paintings, and later established herself producing large-scale public art in glass, wood, stainless steel and concrete.  While her art has a distinctly contemporary feel, it is firmly rooted in Coast Salish motifs and, in particular, the circular designs traditionally carved into the “hilt” of Salish spindle whorls, used in weaving.  In bringing new vitality to these forms, Susan has played an instrumental role in the recognition of Coast Salish art on the Northwest Coast.