Indigenous Arts Series 2022

The Indigenous Arts Series consists of artmaking workshops developed and facilitated by artists based in Katarokwi and Tyendinaga throughout 2022. These workshops are designed to both instruct participants on the artmaking process for each medium/project and provide a platform for the education and exploration of the associated history and teachings for each artform. Stay tuned for details about future workshops!

 

WORKSHOP 1: DREAMCATCHER MAKING WITH MELANIE GRAY 

 

Wednesday, January 26, 6–8 PM  |  Virtual via Zoom

Participants in this workshop will choose beads and/or charms to make their own unique dreamcatchers led by Melanie Gray. Throughout the workshop we will explore the history of the dreamcatcher and the pan-indigenous movement. Participants will have a chance to ask questions and reflect on their final piece. Materials kit included. This experience is suitable for participants 14 yrs of age and older (children are welcome to participate with guidance from a parent/guardian).

Melanie Gray is an Indigenous Artist, Jeweller, and Art Therapist from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. She has a history of facilitating workshops with a variety of ages. Melanie is from the Mohawk Nation and a member of the wolf clan. facebook.com/LikeLittleOwl

Tickets: $30 + HST + fees. Materials kit included.


 WORKSHOP 2: PORCUPINE QUILL EARRINGS WITH MELANIE GRAY 

 

Saturday, April 23, 1:30–3:30PM  |  Rehearsal Hall

 
Artist and educator Melanie Gray will walk participants through the step-by-step process of making porcupine quill earrings. Throughout the workshop, Melanie will share tidbits of Haudenosaunee thinking and some history of beadwork and wearable art. At the end of the class, each participant will go home with their own handcrafted porcupine quill earrings, and more knowledge of Haudenosaunee culture.
 
Melanie Gray is an Indigenous Artist, Jeweller, and Art Therapist from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. She has a history of facilitating workshops with a variety of ages. Melanie is from the Mohawk Nation and a member of the wolf clan. facebook.com/LikeLittleOwl 
 
Tickets: $40 + HST/fees. Materials included.

WORKSHOP 3: Introduction to Métis Sash weaving and oral stories carried in our Sash

 

Introduction to Métis Sash weaving and oral stories carried in our Sash

Sunday, July 17, 1–4PM  |  Activity Room

 
Participants in this workshop will learn to weave a bracelet or bookmark-sized sash, led by artist and educator Candace Lloyd. The finger weaving techniques Candace will demonstrate have been used by Métis individuals for centuries. The skills learned will allow individuals to weave a sash of any size—the only difference is the number and length of strands. Candace will also provide historical Historical context to the Métis sash is also provided. All supplies will be provided to complete one project.
 
Candace Lloyd is a Métis Traditional Knowledge Holder with roots in historical Métis communities of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. Candace grew up closely connected to her Métis culture, traditions, heritage, and community values.
 
Tickets: $25 + HST/fees. Materials included

WORKSHOP 4: BEADED CORN WITH TSIOKERIIO

 

Saturday, September 17, 1–3PM  |  Rehearsal Hall

To give thanks for the continuity of life, we celebrate the abundance of the harvests in the late summer / early fall. To honour that life cycle and create a reminder for ourselves to always give thanks, we will be creating beaded corn keychains.

During the workshop, Tsiokeriio will share stories and teachings round planting, growing, and harvesting from the Kanyenkehà:ka (Mohawk People) as she guides participants through the process of creating their own beaded corn keychains. The techniques taught in this class can also be used to create pendants and earrings.

Tsiokeriio (Dio) Hagen is a Mohawk bear clan beader, painter, singer, and mother from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory in Ontario. She focuses on incorporating traditional knowledge and skills into modern art, with the mission of bringing a greater understanding and appreciation for Indigenous artwork. Her main objective is to incorporate traditional language and culture into everyday life as much as possible.

Tickets: $40 + HST/fees  |  Materials provided


WORKSHOP 5: BEADED POPPIES WITH DANKA BREWER

 

Sunday, October 23, 11AM–2PM  |  Rehearsal Hall

Join us on Sunday, October 23 from 11AM–2PM for a beaded poppy workshop with Danka Brewer of Kokum Makwa Cultural Enterprises.

In this workshop we will be creating our own beaded poppy pins by beading a pattern of a poppy on red felt and creating a pin when we are done. Each participant will be given materials for two beaded poppies. During the workshop we will also be talking about the role of warriors and the teachings that warriors follow in their day to day life.

Danka Brewer is Algonquin from the Sharbot Lake Area. She facilitates Indigenous Teachings on Culture and Tradition and Language for School Boards, Federal, Provincial, Municipal and Community Organizations. Danka is a proud grandmother of five, biological mother of two boys, and many "adopted" children. She is a Storyteller, Hand Dummer/Singer, bead and leather crafter, drum maker, as well as many other roles in her home and community. 

Tickets: $45+ HST / fees  |  Materials provided

https://beaded-poppies.eventbrite.ca