Bob Kussy Memorial Fund

Hello, my name is Candace Lipischak and I am fundraising for Bob Kussy's wife Goota Ashoona, and sons, Joe and Sam.

On Tuesday, January 3, 2023, a shining light went out in the local arts community. Suddenly, with his sons by his side, Bob Kussy passed away. Bob's wife of 25 years, Goota Ashoona, and sons Joe and Sam, lost their loving husband and father. The family is reeling from the loss of their rock and their stability. Bob and Goota’s family and countless friends are shocked and deeply saddened to have lost that incredible source of energy, generosity, love and kindness that was Bob.

In the 25 years since Bob met and married his soulmate in Yellowknife NWT, Bob dedicated his life to enabling his family to enjoy the freedom of creating incredible works of art. Goota and her sons, Joe and Sam, are 3rd and 4th generation of the Ashoona family of Inuit artists of Cape Dorset. Together they founded Ashoona Studios and Bob turned his artistic talents to expand the family’s artistic footprint across Canada, and internationally.

Goota and Bob’s achievement

Their achievements have been many, as documented in articles, videos and documentary films.

Interview with Bob and Goota about their family’s commitment to telling their stories through their art https://vimeo.com/481369741

Inuit Art Foundation profile

CBC documentary film “Carved in Stone” Free Press article

Profile with North-West Territories Arts

Goota and Bob’s generosity

Always generous with his time, knowledge, and talent, Bobby carved his way into many hearts. He made you feel welcome, always let you touch what he or Joe or Goota had carved and would regale many with stories and anecdotes. He was quick to laugh and shared his infectious smile with many.

Bob’s enthusiasm and generosity for helping others were boundless. Over the years, Bob and Goota donated many art pieces to support fundraising activities of organizations that helped people in need such as CNIB, United Way and various local community organizations and charities. Most recently, he and Goota have donated over 25 works to raise funds for humanitarian aid to children and mothers affected by the Russian invasion and war in Ukraine.

Bob’s vision and Goota’s immediate need

Bob’s untimely death has had a profound effect on his family and puts at risk their ability to continue to create works that will enrich our cultural heritage. At the time of his death, Bob was in the process of relocating his family and establishing a functioning studio for Goota, Joe, and Sam to work. Their livelihood depends on their ability to continue carving in stone and bone. For this, their workplace must be safe and warm, with dust collection, proper ventilation and tools. This will enable them to be more productive and expand their reach into the community, bringing art to children of all ages and training the next generation of artists.

Your help is needed

With Bob gone, Goota and her sons need your help to complete Bob’s plan for their artistic and family sustainability. All proceeds from this campaign will go towards the family’s immediate needs associated with Bob’s death, their basic needs and the completion of their studio so that they can continue to create their incredible art in a sustainable, safe and productive environment.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Winnipeg Art Gallery on Monday, February 13 (Bob’s birthday) from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Bob’s life story and memorial can be viewed online at XXXXXXXXXXXX. Please share your memories of Bob with Goota and Bob’s family at [email redacted]