First Nations artist Arnie (Lek’hoosh) Leon, a proud member of the Sts’ailles Nation, shares his heritage through the powerful tradition of live wooden mask carving. The Sts’ailles, whose name means “the Beating Heart”, are from a village on the west side of Harrison Lake in British Columbia’s upper Fraser Valley. Known for their deep connection to ceremony, spirituality, and cultural pride, the Sts’ailles people continue to keep their traditions strong through art, storytelling, and community.
Arnie brings this cultural richness to life with each carving. His masks, shaped from carefully selected wood, are more than works of art—they are living expressions of his people’s values, stories, and spirit. During live carving sessions, audiences witness not only Arnie’s skill and creativity but also the continuation of a practice rooted in centuries of history. His work embodies a bridge between tradition and modern sharing, inviting all to experience First Nations culture.
