Arbutus Tree by Emily Carr. Photo courtesy Heffel Fine Art Auction House

The desire to inspire has moulded Canadian art into something unique and synonymous with life here in the north. The iconic paintings of Emily Carr brought to life the diverse landscape intermixed with Native culture (pictured). Master carver Bill Reid showed us his passion for Haida art with intricate totem poles, sculptures and jewellery. Arthur Erickson pushed architectural design into the future with his contemporary creations, including the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. Photographers Fred Herzog and Jeff Wall continue to immortalize life in Vancouver with their powerful photographs. Visual artist and novelist Douglas Coupland is always changing the face of pop culture, and painter Gordon Smith has received the Order of Canada. There must be something in the water here.—Jennifer Patterson