Many of Ian's pieces are inspired by cultural knowledge handed down to him from his elders. His main mentor has been his great aunt Mary Hunt, one of the last matriarchs of the Heiltsuk Nation. Ian has carved under the guidance of respected Kwakwaka'wakw artist, Simon Dick. He has also been dancing since he was young, and often dances with the Gwawina Dancers. In June of 2008, Ian danced at the University of British Columbia's Chan Centre for the Performing Arts to accompany a special screening of Edward Curtis' landmark film 'In the Land of the Head Hunters'. Also in 2008, Ian was appointed to be Project Manager for the Waglisla Big House that was constructed between 2008-2009 in Bella Bella. Ian was actively involved in every phase of the project: from the original conception to material selection and construction. In 2009, Ian was one of twenty-three artists included in the 'Continuum: Vision and Creativity on the Northwest Coast' exhibition at Vancouver's Bill Reid Gallery. Ian signs his pieces with his Heiltsuk name of Nusi, meaning "Full Moon". His crests are Eagle and Killerwhale.