NWT Arts

Robert “Bob” Kussy made his home in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, where he lived with his wife, Goota Ashoona, and their twin sons, Sam and Joe. Over the years, he pursued a wide range of roles, working as an addictions counsellor, art teacher, Circumpolar Arts Festival coordinator, and founder of the first outdoor youth soccer tournament in the Canadian Arctic. His life and work were deeply rooted in his passion for people, culture, travel, and community.

As a Northern artist, Bob became well known for his distinctive sculptures, often crafted from whalebone and other natural materials such as walrus ivory, caribou antler, and muskox horn. His work reflected northern life and culture, drawing inspiration from both lived experience and family history. Over more than 25 years of carving, he created a significant body of work that was exhibited in galleries and collections across Canada and beyond.

Bob worked closely with his family in their art studio, welcoming thousands of visitors from around the world each year. Together, they shared not only their artwork but also stories, knowledge, and northern hospitality. He was highly regarded as a skilled restorer of Inuit art and developed a strong understanding of historic Inuit artists and traditions.

Throughout his career, Bob played an active role in the arts community, contributing to numerous regional, national, and international exhibitions, festivals, and cultural initiatives. He collaborated with artists, curators, galleries, and organizations, and became recognized as a leader in developing Northern arts projects and events. His work and expertise connected him with institutions, collectors, and cultural organizations around the world.

Among his many achievements, Bob represented the Northwest Territories at major exhibitions, contributed to national arts initiatives, and had work selected for important collections, including the National Art Bank. He also helped coordinate major cultural events, including an international circumpolar arts festival.

For Bob, art was not only a profession but a way of life. He saw himself as a representative of his community, sharing the stories and spirit of the North with visitors and audiences far beyond it. He took great pride in working alongside his family, supporting their artistic journey while continuing to create and inspire.

Robert Kussy’s legacy lives on through his artwork, his contributions to the Northern arts community, and the many people he welcomed, taught, and inspired throughout his life.