Alan Syliboy

Alan Syliboy is a celebrated Mi’kmaw artist, musician, and storyteller from Millbrook First Nation, Nova Scotia. His distinctive style, inspired by Mi’kmaw petroglyphs and traditional stories, bridges the ancient and the contemporary. Alan’s artistic practice spans multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, music, and animation, with his work celebrated locally and internationally. Alan Syliboy’s work is influenced by the Indigenous Mi’kmaq rock drawing and quill weaving traditions. Working in acrylic and mixed media, Alan creates vibrantly coloured images exploring the themes of family, searching, spirituality, struggle, and strength. The use of layering symbols and mark making creates depth and texture in Alan’s work.

Growing up in Millbrook, Alan’s early years were marked by a strong connection to Mi’kmaw traditions and culture. His grandmother and other family members nurtured his creativity, but he also faced challenges, including being discouraged from speaking his language in school. Alan found solace in drawing, often in secret, and later turned to Mi’kmaw petroglyphs for inspiration. Under the mentorship of Shirley Bear and through formal study at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Alan developed a vibrant artistic vocabulary, incorporating bold lines, intricate patterns, and themes rooted in Mi’kmaw spirituality and history.

Alan’s contributions to Mi’kmaw art and culture are immense. Highlights of his career include creating the Thundermaker installation, presenting a portrait of Grand Chief Membertou to Queen Elizabeth II, and co-creating animations for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. As a musician, Alan leads The Thundermakers, blending traditional Mi’kmaw sounds with contemporary music. He is also the author of The Thundermaker and other works, which bring Indigenous stories to life for readers of all ages.

In addition to his creative endeavors, Alan is a sought-after speaker and cultural educator. He conducts workshops, sharing his knowledge of Mi’kmaw art, storytelling, and history, and his work continues to be a source of pride and cultural revitalization for Mi’kmaq communities and beyond.