Emil Thibert

Emil Thibert was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on May 15th, 1962, to a Metis father and a Salteaux mother. Although he grew up in Alberta, he has spent most of his adult life in Vancouver, where he discovered and developed his carving abilities under the tutelage of Kwakwaka’wakw artist Carl Simeon.

In his quest for a comprehensive understanding of Pacific Northwest Coast carving traditions, Emil devoted a significant amount of time to studying historic works from various artists and nations across the region. He considers carving to be his way of ensuring precious traditions are preserved for future generations. He continues to create masks, wall plaques, paddles, rattles and totem poles using a wide variety of mediums and artistic styles. His work has been featured in a number of commercial galleries and is sought by private collectors around the world.