Stan Bevan, a respected Indigenous artist and teacher from Terrace, has been named to the Order of British Columbia, the highest honour in the province. This award recognizes his life’s work in preserving and promoting Northwest Coast Indigenous art and culture.
Bevan, who is of Tahltan-Tlingit and Tsimshian heritage, has been carving, teaching, and guiding others for more than 40 years. Through his work, he has helped build a strong path for Indigenous art to thrive across British Columbia and beyond.
In 2006, Bevan helped found the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Coast Mountain College. He worked with fellow artists Dempsey Bob and Ken McNeil to open the school. Their goal was to create a place where Indigenous students could learn traditional carving and formline design in a structured, supportive setting.
Since then, Bevan has taught and guided more than 150 students. The school became a center of learning where Indigenous artists connect with their roots and learn skills to carry on their traditions. Many of these students now work as artists, teachers, and cultural leaders in their own communities.
Bevan also played a key role in bringing support to the school. His work helped attract funding from the Cargill Foundation, which allowed the program to grow. Today, over 70 pieces by the school’s alumni are displayed at the college, showing the depth and beauty of the work created there.
Beyond his teaching, Bevan is known for his own art. His carvings — including over 100 large-scale works — have been shown across Canada and the world. Each piece reflects his deep knowledge of Indigenous design and his skill as a master carver.
One of his recent projects in 2023 was a special collaboration with Dempsey Bob and Māori artist Lyonel Grant. Together, they raised a new totem pole at Emily Carr University in Vancouver. The work was a celebration of cultural exchange and shared respect between Indigenous peoples of Canada and New Zealand.
Though he is widely respected, Bevan remains humble about his success. He often says his students are the most important part of his legacy. Many of them continue to teach, carve, and share their culture with the next generation.
Bevan’s leadership goes beyond art. He is a role model in his community and across the province. His dedication has helped keep Indigenous stories and traditions alive. His influence can be felt not only in galleries and museums but also in schools, community centers, and cultural spaces.
This year, Bevan is one of 15 people receiving the Order of British Columbia. The award is given to people who make a strong and lasting impact in their field. Other recipients this year include experts in climate science, medicine, diplomacy, and Indigenous leadership.
The award ceremony will take place on September 16 at Government House in Victoria. There, Bevan and the other recipients will be officially welcomed into the Order. The event will recognize their hard work, leadership, and the value they bring to British Columbia.
The Order of British Columbia was first created in 1989. It honours people who have shown excellence and achieved outstanding accomplishments. Over the years, it has been given to many well-known figures who have helped shape the province through service, talent, or innovation.
Stan Bevan’s selection for the Order reflects his deep commitment to Indigenous art and education. Through his carving, teaching, and mentorship, he has created lasting change. His work ensures that the art, knowledge, and culture of his people will be shared for generations to come.
