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Kwanlin Dün Artist, Justin Smith with his parents Brian Walker and Ann Smith, and his grandmother Kitty Smith, at the unveiling of Justin's painting "Guardian of the Games".
A painting by Kwanlin Dün artist and carver Justin Smith's painting, was chosen as the work of art to grace the 2008 Northwestel Directory. Justin's artwork is an acrylic painting on canvas entitled "Guardian of the Games".
Justin Smith has spent most of his life growing up in Whitehorse. For the past few years, he has been a participant in the Sundog Studio & Gallery Carving program where he has studied and worked with instructors Keith Wolfe Smarch, Ken Anderson and Vernon Asp. Justin has also studied with Yukon carver Eugene Alfred. Prior to this, Justin studied art at the Institute of American Indian Art in New Mexico.
"Guardian of the Games" features a thunderbird, a powerful spirit animal and cultural icon for many First Nations. "The thunderbird causes thunder and rain and can throw lightning snakes from under its wings," says Smith. "The human face and thunderbird shown in my painting represent the power of the human spirit and the triumph of excellence."
Justin continues to work and further develop his skills as an artist at the Sundog Retreat carving programs in Whitehorse. His current portfolio includes panels, masks, paddles, original designs and prints.
"I believe that art is good for youth and gives them a way to express themselves," says Smith. "Art is an important part of my tradition and I want to contribute to the revival of northern native culture."
As the winner of this year's competition to be chosen on the cover of the directory, Justin received a limited edition print of his painting as well as a prize award of $2000.00.
He is also carrying on a family tradition, as he comes from an artistic family and is proud to carry on the tradition of First Nation artists. His father, Brian Walker, is an artist who works in copper and his mother, Ann Smith, is well known for her weaving. Her Raven's Tail robe weaving was featured on the 1999 Northwestel directory cover.
