Tyssis Fontaine

Anishinaabe

Anishinaabe artist Tyssis Fontaine, was born in 1997 in Vancouver, BC. She is from Sagkeeng and Fort Williams First Nations.

At a very young age, Tyssis’s family and friends recognized she was an artist and encouraged her to create art. Since 2013 Tyssis has submerged herself into her artistic ability, spending most days painting, drawing and creating sculptures. She primarily painted and completed private commissions and murals.

In 2015 Master carver Moy Sutherland Jr took Tyssis under his wing and taught her and other youth how to carve a 25- foot totem pole. Which is located at the Victoria Native Friendship Center (VNFC) in Victoria BC. The totem pole was raised in front of VNFC in March 2016. After this opportunity, Tyssis became serious about pursuing a career as an artist.

In 2017 Tyssis attended post secondary at The Institute of American Indian Arts, in Santa Fe New Mexico. During her time in Santa Fe, Tyssis has explored stone carving, ceramics, creating mixed media sculptures, blacksmithing and casting bronze sculptures in the foundry.

In 2019, Tyssis could not complete her education for her degree due to Covid-19. Not wanting to slow down her growth as an artist. Tyssis started her apprenticeship with Moy Sutherland Jr. With the help and guidance of Moy, the majority of her current focus is furthering her knowledge in her culture and art. Tyssis is interested in exploring pushing the boundaries of Anishinaabe art, while staying within tradition.