December 22, 2025
Tahltan artist Vernon Asp was raised in Northern Tutchone Territory, which he says gave him a unique perspective being immersed in many First Nations ways of knowing and doing. A perspective that continues to guide his work, his teachings, and his art.
Vernon, who is also an assistant professor in the School of Academic and Skill Development, stands next to his restored red cedar carving that he named, Never Give Up. He looks it over with care and critiques some of the elements of his work, tool to wood. Vernon used gouge and carving knives to bring the piece to life.
The three-by-eight-foot flat panel carving now hangs prominently in the President’s Boardroom at Yukon University, a powerful reminder of resilience, renewal, and the ongoing journey of Reconciliation.
