VANCOUVER, B.C. – Six aboriginal artists were honored Oct. 15 at the third annual BC Creative Achievement Awards for Aboriginal Art.

“Through their carving, painting, jewelry and weaving, these artists have made an important contribution to a tradition of cultural diversity and richness that stretches back through the centuries,” said Premier Gordon Campbell, director of the British Columbia Achievement Foundation.

“It is a tribute to the incredible cultural heritage of B.C.’s First Nations and an extraordinary legacy that all British Columbians can take pride in.”

Earl Muldon, Gitxsan, received the Lifetime Creative Achievement Award for Aboriginal Art. He is a hereditary chief known for his bentwood boxes, bowls, house fronts, gold and silver jewelry, large totem poles, limited edition prints, masks, original paintings, rattles and spoons.

The five other achievement award recipients were Calvin Hunt, Kwaguilth; Richard Hunt, Kwaguilth; Noeleen McQuary, Carrier Nadleh Whut’en; John Marston, Chemainus; and Isabel Rorick, Haida.

Each received a $2,500 prize and the right to use the award seal.