Ryan Cranmer

"Our art is a gift handed down through our ancestors. Art is an essential part of our culture; it tells our stories and reminds us who we are." Ryan Cranmer was born 1980 in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is the nephew of well-known master carver Doug Cranmer. His mother is of the Namgis band of the Kwakwaka’wakw nation from Alert Bay, British Columbia, and his father is from the Heiltsuk nation of Bella Bella, British Columbia.

Ryan grew up surrounded by art and artists. Master Carvers Wayne Alfred, Beau Dick and Barry Scow have had a great impact on his life and work as mentors and friends. He learned to carve under the tutelage of experienced carver Barry Scow. Cranmer carves brightly painted masks and makes limited edition prints. He also has expanded his design skills to work with Native Northwest in making commercial items including clothing, ceramics, and Jewellery.