HELLO!
I’m Phoebe Riel, a Kwakwaka’wakw illustrator based in Mohkinstsis (Calgary), Alberta. I’m a proud member of the ‘Na̲mg̲is First Nation, with Ojibway roots through the Batchewana First Nation and mixed European ancestry. My work is deeply inspired by my heritage, my connection to the land, and the power of visual storytelling—a craft passed down through generations of Indigenous storytellers in my family.
I’ve been creating art for as long as I can remember, starting with painting and sketching as a child. Those early creative experiments shaped my cozy, handmade style and sparked my passion for illustration. Today, my work blends themes from nature, cultural stories, and childhood nostalgia, drawing on the landscapes of Alberta and the BC coast to inspire playful, heartfelt creations that resonate with all ages.
After earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Communication Design and Illustration from the Alberta University of the Arts, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting projects. I designed an original art wrap for Calgary’s public transit system as part of the Art Bus: Connecting Communities with Public Art 2024 project, celebrating Indigenous stories and perspectives. I’m also developing Astina, a children’s book rooted in land-based teachings, and running my small business, Salmon Bear Shop, where I showcase my design and branding skills through whimsical, nature-inspired products.
As a neurodivergent artist living with chronic pain, I’ve built a career that allows me to work from home while sharing my art with the world. Whether I’m illustrating a children’s book, crafting product designs, or collaborating on a storytelling project, my goal is always to create work that celebrates connection, joy, and community.
SELECTED PROJETS & EXHIBITIONS
Art Bus: Connecting Communities with Public Art
Calgary Arts Development | Aug–Sep 2024
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Designed an original art wrap for Calgary’s public transit system, celebrating Indigenous stories and perspectives.
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Featured panels inside the bus showcasing pre-existing works and biographical details.
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Interviewed by Calgary Arts Development and featured in their social media coverage.
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Artist statement highlighted in CTV News coverage; project also featured on live CBC Calgary News, CBC Canada News, and CTV Calgary broadcasts
VDAC: Coloring Book Project
Victoria Disability Arts Collective | Sep-Dec 2024
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Illustrated for a collaborative coloring book celebrating Disability pride and community care.
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Interviewed on CBC Radio’s segment “New Coloring Book Celebrates Diverse Artistic Voices.”
Our Stories, Our Voices, Our Ways
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland | June–October 2022
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Participated in a group exhibition for Indigenous artists, sharing artworks that honored knowledge, connection, and ancestral stories.
Elder Portrait Award Exhibition
The Lodgepole Center, Alberta University of the Arts | May 2022
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Created seven portraits of Elders in residence, one set gifted to Elders and another permanently displayed at the AUArts Lodgepole Centre.
SELECTED CLIENTS
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Calgary Arts Development
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Alberta University of the Arts
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MobSquad
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Covergint
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Rocky View Schools District
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The Circle for Truth and Reconciliation
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The Lodgepole Center
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Visual and Digital Arts Collective (VDAC)
AWARDS
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Elder Portrait Award, Alberta University of the Arts - May 2022
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Indigenous Careers Award, Alberta Advanced Education - November 2022 & December 2024
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Finalist, Stampede Chuckwagon Design Contest | MobSquad | May 2024
PUBLICATIONS & INTERVIEWS
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CTV News: Calgarians Invited to Art Bus Launch in October (Artist statement featured)
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CBC Radio: New Coloring Book Celebrates Diverse Artistic Voices (Interview)
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Calgary Arts Development: Art Bus Project Interview
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CBC Calgary News, CBC Canada News, and CTV Calgary: Featured in live broadcasts highlighting the Art Bus project
Contact Me
Have a fun opportunity, want to work together, or just have a question? I’d love to hear from you!
For business inquiries, commissions, licensing opportunities, or school visits, please email me at rielphoebe@gmail.com. If you have a general question, feel free to reach out or check out my FAQ page for more information.
I’m always on the lookout for new opportunities and connections, so please don’t hesitate to say hello. Let’s create something meaningful together
