nukaltimut:

The Nuxalk Nation is located in and around what is known to some as Bella Coola, British Columbia, Canada. The Nuxalkmc have been occupying and exercising their rights on the lands, water and resources of their ancestral territory since time immemorial.

Nuxalk art has a distinctive style and features designs that are unique to Nuxalk territory and family crests. In particular, the use of a vibrant blue has long been an identifying hallmark of Nuxalk art (the “Bella Coola Blue”). Smayustas, or creation stories, are tied to family crests and also a shared history. They are the reason Nuxalk art is crafted and each piece made by a Nuxalk artist is carrying this history.

Kelly Robinson's family origins are rooted in Bella Coola, British Columbia with descendants from both the Nuxalk and Ahousaht nations. He has apprenticed with artists Jim McGuire and Gordon Dick. Robinson has also mentored under renowned artists, Tim Paul, Ron Hamilton, Dempsey Bob, Alvin Mack, Stan Bevan and Ken McNeil.

Robinson uses his art to tell stories of the Nuxalk and Nuu-chah-nulth people, their land and culture. He examines stories of the supernatural, potlatch societies, as well as the land and the sea. Robinson's work is represented in private, corporate and public collections around the world.