Richard Hunt (artist) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Richard Hunt
Born	1951 (age 73–74) Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada
Known for	Sculptor
Awards	Order of Canada, Order of British Columbia, honorary doctorate from the University of Victoria

Richard Hunt (born in 1951) is a famous Canadian artist. He is from the Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation, an Indigenous group from the coast of British Columbia. Richard Hunt is well-known for his amazing carvings, especially his totem poles.

About Richard Hunt

Richard Hunt was born in a place called Alert Bay, British Columbia. But he has lived most of his life in Victoria, which is also in British Columbia.

His Family and Early Life

Richard comes from a very artistic family. His father's side of the family includes George Hunt, who was a famous expert on Native cultures. Richard started carving when he was just thirteen years old.

In 1973, he began working with his father, Henry Hunt. They worked at Thunderbird Park in Victoria. This park is part of the British Columbia Provincial Museum. It's a special place where many totem poles are carved and displayed.

Richard's brothers, Tony Hunt and Stanley C. Hunt, are also talented carvers. It seems carving runs in their family!

Special Projects and Artworks

Richard Hunt has worked on many interesting projects. For example, he designed the medals for a big swimming competition. This was the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships held in 2006.

He also helped repaint a totem pole at Rideau Hall. Rideau Hall is where the Governor General of Canada lives. The Governor General is like the Queen's representative in Canada. Richard's grandfather, Mungo Martin, had given this totem pole to the Governor General back in 1946.

Awards and Recognitions

Richard Hunt has received many important awards for his art. These awards show how much his work is respected.

Major Canadian Honors

In 1991, Richard Hunt was given the Order of British Columbia. This is a very high honor from the province of British Columbia. It recognizes people who have done great things for the province.

He is also a member of the Order of Canada. This is one of the highest honors a person can receive in Canada. It celebrates people who have made a big difference to the country.

University and Art Academy Honors

In 2004, the University of Victoria gave him an honorary doctorate degree. This is a special degree given to people who have achieved a lot, even if they didn't study at that university.

He was also made a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. This is a group of Canada's most talented artists. Being a member means he is recognized as one of the best artists in the country.