12/10/2023
LEONARD JAMES McKAY
June 21, 1972 – October 10, 2023
A man of courage, artistic vision, humour, kindness—
Proud of his Indigenous heritage and spirit –
Respected, cherished, and mourned
(ms- IAFTE)
Lenard passed away in his home. We met in 2007, as I asked him about his carvings. He sat in the street late at night and I would often pass by on my way home from my office. As I learned more about his work and the difficulties of working in such difficult conditions, and of the problems faced by Indigenous artists – particularly street-based ones – in marketing their work, the idea for Indian Art from the Edge formed. Lenard was always an active participant and he was a mainstay in shows and events that were presented by IAFTE. He was well-known to area workers and passers-by as he sat on an office entryway, often with fellow carvers. His art was appreciated and his interactions with every one were kind, informative, and enjoyable. He was treasured and indeed much missed. There was a full end-of-life ceremony for Leonard, in his Coast Salish Nation home community.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to provide a comment about your own appreciation of Len’s work and way of knowing those who loved it.
With thanks and respect,
Marylee Stephenson, owner/curator, Indian Art From The Edge - [email protected]
