Cyril Bennett-Nabess

Cyril “CJ” Bennett-Nabess was born in the Tsimshian community of Gitselasu (Kitselas) B.C. He belongs to the house of Dz’wilaaks in the coastal community of Gitxaala and is a member of the Ganhada (Raven) clan.

As a child CJ was often found fishing out of Prince Rupert with his grandfather Wilfred Bennett Sr. While fishing, his grandfather would tell him A’dawx (stories) that were passed down from generation to generation. Today CJ is trying to capture those A’dawx through the traditional art form of the Tsimshian people.

He credits his many years of study and his ongoing education at the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art for where he is today. He never hesitates to give credit and acknowledgment for his teachings. He says everyone has something to teach you, the only thing you have to do is listen.

Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art, 2014.