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Indigenous man experiencing homelessness has art displayed at Kelowna art gallery

Despite experiencing homelessness, Clint Williams, creates intricate pieces of traditional art
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Clint Williams pictured with his artwork (Jim Lawrence/Submitted)

An Indigenous artist experiencing homelessness in Kelowna proves that beauty can be found anywhere.

Clint Williams, from the Gitxsan (KÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™san) Nation was sitting on Leon Avenue, in Kelowna, surrounded by his possessions, some snacks and a canvas featuring the beginnings of a new piece of art, when Capital News sat down beside him for an interview.

He was one of approximately 20 people who had spent the night sleeping outdoors on the street. While speaking with Capital News, Williams continued to quietly work on his art, as he does every day amidst the bustle and noise of living without shelter. The interview was cut short when RCMP officers clearing the area told Williams that he had to get up and move to a different location.

Williams is soft-spoken and when asked about his past, he explained that he was formally trained at the KÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™San Art School, in northern B.C. After completing the four-year program, Williams worked as an instructor at an Elementary school on Gitsugukla First Nation in the north of the province.

Clint Williams and his partner working pictured while he works on a new piece of art in downtown Kelowna. (Jacqueline Gelineau/Capital News)
Clint Williams and his partner working pictured while he works on a new piece of art in downtown Kelowna. (Jacqueline Gelineau/Capital News)

WilliamsÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™ ability to express himself and his medium of choice has changed and developed alongside his life experiences.

These days, Williams honours his heritage by creating traditional Indigenous pieces of art using a freehand technique. He tells stories through his work and draws inspiration from nature and his past.

Williams typically uses the technique of freehand drawing and painting on large sheets of thick paper or canvas.

His work can be found at Hambleton Galleries in Kelowna. All proceeds from the sales of his work are given to Williams by the gallery.

To learn more about Williams, the Hambleton Galleries or to buy artwork, visit

READ MORE: Okanagan film industry champions massive growth over the past three years



Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com

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Jacqueline Gelineau

About the Author: Jacqueline Gelineau

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