Moy Sutherland
(1974 – Present, Nuu-Chah-Nulth)
Nuu-Chah-Nulth artist Morris (Moy) Sutherland was born in 1974 in Ahousaht, Vancouver Island. He began his artistic career in 1995 with the encouragement of friends and family. Prior to this, Morris had worked in the forests of British Columbia, which he still cites as his greatest source of inspiration. Under the tutelage of renowned Coast Salish carver Joe Wilson, Morris studied the principles of carving in the culturally vibrant community of Alert Bay. After mastering the basics, Morris relocated to Port Alberni in order to study the Nuu-chah-nulth style from Mark Mickey. Throughout the late nineties, Morris continued his education in both technique and design. He worked with Victor and Carey Newman at the Blue Raven Gallery located in Sooke, British Columbia, and also studied with renowned Nuu-chah-nulth artist Art Thompson.
Morris’ knowledge of both Kwakwaka’wakw and Nuu-chah-nulth styles gives him a broad understanding of Northwest Coast art as well as a great respect for the traditions and rules of his culture. Though his artworks often demonstrate a strong adherence to traditional forms, Morris is also interested in exploring the range of possibilities inherent within traditional design. Today Morris continues to explore a range of media while also completing a degree in anthropology and sociology with the goal of furthering his knowledge of the history of his people through art and culture. His work can be found in public and private collections across North America.