Richard Hunt (artist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Hunt
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| Born | 1951 (age 73–74) Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada
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| Known for | Sculptor |
| Awards | Order of Canada, Order of British Columbia, honorary doctorate from the University of Victoria |
Richard Hunt CM OBC RCA (born 1951) is a famous Canadian First Nations artist. He comes from the Kwakwaka'wakw people, who live along the coast of British Columbia. Richard Hunt is especially known for his amazing carvings.
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Meet Richard Hunt: A Master Carver
Richard Hunt was born in Alert Bay, British Columbia, in 1951. He has spent most of his life in Victoria, B.C. His family has a long history of talented artists and cultural leaders.
Early Life and Family Art
Richard started carving when he was just thirteen years old. Art runs in his family! His father, Henry Hunt, was also a well-known artist. In 1973, Richard began working with his father at Thunderbird Park. This park is part of the British Columbia Provincial Museum in Victoria.
Richard's brothers, Tony Hunt and Stanley C. Hunt, are also skilled carvers. His great-grandfather, George Hunt, was a very important person. He helped record and share the traditions and stories of the Kwakwaka'wakw people.
Famous Works and Projects
Richard Hunt has worked on many exciting projects. For example, he designed the medals for the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships. This big swimming event happened in Victoria in August 2006.
He also helped restore an important piece of art. He repainted a totem pole at Rideau Hall. Rideau Hall is where Canada's Governor General lives. Richard's grandfather, Mungo Martin, had given this totem pole to Governor General Lord Alexander way back in 1946.
Awards and Recognition
Richard Hunt has received many special awards for his artistic talents. In 1991, he was given the Order of British Columbia. This is one of the highest honors in British Columbia. He is also a member of the Order of Canada. The Order of Canada is one of the highest awards a Canadian can receive. It recognizes people who have made a big difference in Canada.
In 2004, the University of Victoria gave him an honorary doctorate. This means they recognized his great achievements, even though he didn't go to university for that degree. He was also made a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. This is a group that celebrates Canada's most talented artists.
