Arthur Cunningham - Calgary, Alberta

Elder • Knowledge Keeper • Community Leader

Elder Art Cunningham is a proud Métis Elder who has spent his life helping people build understanding, respect, and meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. With more than 35 years of experience, he brings people into connection, where everyone is invited to listen, learn, and grow together.

As the President and Knowledge Keeper of Roundtable Consulting, Art travels across Canada to support meaningful reconciliation and share Indigenous knowledge in ways that build trust, integrity, and long-lasting partnerships.

Earlier in his career, he spent nearly four decades in the energy sector, where he guided corporate leaders in building respectful, enduring relationships with Indigenous Nations. His ability to bridge worldviews has helped shape how industry, government, and Indigenous communities work together across Alberta and beyond.

His deep care for future generations was embodied through his work with Métis children and family services, where he hxsas helped create safe, culturally grounded spaces that honour the health, identity, and safety of Indigenous families, children, and Elders.

Art humbly serves as a Knowledge Keeper in many important spaces, including with the Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Crossing, the City of Calgary’s procurement team, the Circle of Wisdom Elders and Seniors Centre, and the Calgary Chamber of Commerce’s Aboriginal Opportunities Committee. He has also supported the United Way and the Calgary Aboriginal Women’s Shelter, always centring Indigenous voices and values in the work he does.

Although he has received many awards including the Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award, the Paul Harris Fellowship Award, and the Alberta Centennial Medal, Elder Art believes the greatest honour is being trusted to share knowledge and help others walk their path with courage, humility, and heart.

Through his stories and teachings, Elder Art reminds us that when we care for one another, remember where we come from, and walk in a good way, we help build a better future for all.