cOMMUNITY

Born in 1961 to a Tahltan-Tlingit mother and Ts’msyen father, Stan Bevan carries a deep and enduring connection to the Skeena region. He began his formal training at the Gitanmaax School of Northwest Coast Indian Art in Hazelton in 1979 and went on to complete a six-year apprenticeship with his uncle, acclaimed master carver Dempsey Bob. Since then, Stan has established himself as one of the most respected Indigenous artists in Canada, known for his innovative designs, technical mastery, and dedication to passing on cultural knowledge.

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Stan’s influence goes far beyond his carving tools. He is a co-founder of the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Coast Mountain College in Terrace—Canada’s first institution of fine art dedicated to Northwest Coast traditions. Through decades of mentorship and education, he has inspired a new generation of artists to carry on and evolve Indigenous art practices.

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One of Stan’s most recent and celebrated achievements is Su-gigyet, a major public art installation unveiled on July 19–20, 2025, in the centre of the roundabout at the intersection of Highways 16 and 37 in Thornhill. Su-gigyet—meaning “new people” in Sm’algyax—was a name gifted by Stan’s late father, Sm’oogyet Sha-gann (Mel Bevan), a respected Kitselas elder and land claims negotiator.

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Su-gigyet is already being recognized as a cultural landmark and a major contribution to the region’s growing arts profile.

As this year’s Riverboat Days Ambassador, Stan Bevan represents the powerful intersection of tradition and innovation. His lifelong commitment to art, education, and Indigenous cultural resurgence makes him an inspiring figure—not only for northwest B.C., but across Canada and beyond.

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We are proud to honour his work, his vision, and his continued impact on our communities.