SOLD: This amazing First Nations Orca, Raven, and Salmon Wall Panel design is dynamic and colorful, painted and carved with top notch precision. Measures 16 x 14 x .75.

The artist is W. Joel Good ts’usqinuxun, born August 8, 1984, passed away August 28, 2024.

A proud member of the Snuneymuxw First Nation (pronounced Snuh-Nay-moh), Joel played a critical role in the Coast Salish art revitalization movement. He seamlessly blended the artistic styles of his parents and worked collaboratively with his family to carve master works alongside his father and create designs for the family clothing line, Ay Lelum – The Good House of Design with his sisters, Aunalee and Sophia, and his mother.

Good, who had just turned 40 when he suddenly passed away, was a central force in continuing the resurgence of traditional Snuneymuxw carving started by his father, hereditary chief, historian, honorary doctorate-holder and master carver William Good ts’usqinuxun. He also inherited a rich artistic tradition from his mother, painter and fashion designer Sandra Moorhouse-Good thul te lada.

Joel had an infectious smile and amazing sense of humor. He cared deeply for people and was known for his loyalty and kindness. Joel was a humble and resilient person who overcame obstacles with grace and determination.

Joel’s artwork has graced fashion shows across Canada and the USA. His public art is at Departure Bay beach, Nanaimo Art Gallery, Vancouver Island University, among others, along with many pieces in public and private collections. In 2023 Joel was awarded the City of Nanaimo Excellence in Culture Award for his contributions and achievements with visual art.

This community has lost one of its most creative talents and a family has lost a beloved son and sibling, and the Snuneymuxw First Nation one of its outstanding lights. Joel’s legacy will live on through his incredible artwork and loving family.

Snuneymuxw First Nation is one of the largest Nations in B.C. with a population of approximately 2,000 people. We are one of the few Nations that have a pre-Confederation treaty with the Crown – the Sarlequun Snuneymuxw Treaty of 1854.