Phoebe Riel

Year of birth: 2002.
Where do you live: Mohkinstsis (Calgary), Alberta, Canada.
Your education: Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Communication Design and Illustration from AUArts.
Describe your art in three words: Kinship, Land, Storytelling.
Your discipline: Illustration, character design, visual storytelling.
Website | Instagram

Can you tell us more about how your Kwakwaka’wakw and Ojibway heritage influences your art?  

My identity as a Kwakwaka’wakw and Ojibway artist shapes not only how I view and connect with the world but also how I create. Growing up with roots in these rich cultures, I’ve always been surrounded by stories that connect us to the land, animals, and each other. These stories, passed down through generations, taught me the power of visual language and the importance of storytelling as a way to preserve and share our heritage. Being Indigenous is not just where I come from but who I am, and reclaiming that identity through art is an act of revitalization for me and my community. In this age of cultural resurgence, I strive to reflect our stories in meaningful ways that inspire others to celebrate their heritage. Through blending Indigenous storytelling and ways of being with my own style—whether exploring trickster figures like the Raven or celebrating the resilience of salmon—I aim to honour the stories and symbols that have shaped me, while staying true to what feels authentic and natural in my creative process. It brings me so much joy to contribute to this cultural resurgence, and I hope my work carries that same joy to others.

How does storytelling, passed down through generations in your family, shape your creative process?  

Storytelling is the foundation of my creative process. My family’s stories taught me how narratives connect us to our values, our land, and our ancestors. When I approach a project, I think of it as a living thread that ties the past, present, and future together. Whether I’m working on a children’s book or product design, I focus on telling a story that feels authentic and alive, using visual language to capture the spirit of these teachings.

Riel Phoebe | Medicine Teachings | 2024

Your work often features themes of nature and nostalgia. What draws you to these subjects, and how do you make them accessible to all ages?  

Nature is one of my greatest teachers. I’ve learned so much from the natural world, Indigenous knowledge keepers and elders, and I believe everyone can deepen their understanding of themselves and the land by adopting a reciprocal relationship with it. I find immense joy in being outside—swimming in cold Canadian waters and getting to know our relatives on four legs, wings, fins, and those who stand rooted in the earth. Nostalgia resonates with me because I believe children are deeply connected to creativity and spirituality. Creating takes me back to that childlike state of curiosity, especially when sketching or brainstorming. My childhood, spent exploring the Rocky Mountains and coastlines, continues to inspire my work. To make my art accessible, I focus on storytelling elements like color, lighting, and expression to evoke universal emotions. My goal is to create art that invites people of all ages to reconnect with a sense of wonder.

How did your education in Visual Communication Design and Illustration at the Alberta University of the Arts prepare you for your artistic career?  

My time at AUArts was pivotal in shaping both my creative vision and professional skills. The program introduced me to talented artists and educators whose mentorship was invaluable, helping me grow as a storyteller and designer. Through classes in illustration, animation, graphic design, and character design, I gained a well-rounded education that encouraged me to experiment with different art forms while strengthening my foundational skills in visual storytelling, concept development, and attention to detail. Beyond technical growth, the program also gave me space to explore my identity as an artist. I was able to connect my cultural heritage to my work in meaningful ways, drawing from Kwakwaka’wakw and Ojibway traditions to inform my creative process. The Lodgepole Centre, the Indigenous student centre at AUArts, played a crucial role in this journey, connecting me with Indigenous community members, Elders, and opportunities like student art shows. These connections enriched my perspective and gave me the confidence to take on culturally significant projects, such as public art and children’s books. AUArts’ collaborative and interdisciplinary environment prepared me for the versatility required in a freelance career. I left the program with not only technical skills but also the ability to adapt, learn from others, and communicate stories that resonate with diverse audiences. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my artistic voice and career path.

Riel Phoebe | Salmon Girl | 2024

As a neurodivergent artist living with chronic pain, how do you navigate the challenges of creating art while maintaining joy and connection in your work?  

Living with chronic pain and navigating neurodivergence has profoundly shaped my approach to creativity and work. Art has become both my refuge and my way of connecting with others. It allows me to channel my energy and find balance, even on tough days. My neurodivergent mind is often an asset—it gives me the ability to hyper-focus on projects and fully immerse myself in my work. However, it also means I’m highly motivated by interest and novelty, which can make it challenging to stay organized or stick to rigid routines. To manage these challenges, I’ve created an unconventional work schedule that prioritizes flexibility. I use tools like planners and schedules to keep myself on track while allowing room for rest and creativity. A more structured, traditional work environment, like the one I experienced in grade school, was much harder on my well-being in my experience. Working from home and sharing my art digitally has been transformative for me. It allows me to connect with people in ways that would otherwise be much harder, creating a sense of community that enriches both my art and my life. Ultimately, my challenges have taught me to embrace softness while celebrating resilience, themes that often appear in my work. By focusing on projects that align with my values and inspire me, I’ve built a career that lets me share joy and connection with others, even on the hardest days.

What was your experience like illustrating Astina, a children’s book rooted in land-based teachings?  

Illustrating Astina has been both challenging and rewarding. The story celebrates resilience, reciprocity, and the power of gift-giving, which required me to delve deeply into Plains Cree culture and pre-colonial life. Balancing historical and cultural accuracy with childlike imaginative storytelling was a challenge, but it was also deeply fulfilling. This project also strengthened my relationship with Woodland art, guided by my uncle, Dean Sayers, who encouraged me to honour my ancestors throughout the process. Collaborating with Grant Berg, whose family stories from his grandmother inspired the book, added another layer of depth. His passion for uplifting Indigenous women in the children’s book industry is incredibly inspiring, and it has been a great pleasure working alongside him to bring this story to life. I’m truly excited for Astina to debut and hope it inspires young readers while teaching essential life lessons of reciprocity, kinship with the land and animals, and the value of bravery, kindness, and resilience, as embodied by Astina.

Riel Phoebe | k̓uta̱la | 2024

What advice would you give to aspiring Indigenous artists who want to celebrate their heritage in their work?  

Trust your unique voice—our stories are powerful, and no one else can tell them the way you can. Don’t hesitate to connect with local opportunities, Indigenous mentors, and your community. Applying for everything, even when it feels daunting, can lead to surprising and affirming opportunities. Lastly, embrace your journey—experiment, learn from the land, and honour the stories that shape you.