NWT Arts

My name is Naomi Madlee Mantla, and I am a Tłı̨chǫ artist from Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories. 

My love for sewing and creating started when I was young when my great aunt, Alice J. Mantla taught me basic embroidery stitches and floral designs. 

I developed a love for sewing and would often join the sewing groups offered at school. Later in 2023 I was taught how to bead by Hovak Johnston, who introduced me to different beading techniques and taught me how to make a few pieces. 

I began creating my own designs at home, experimenting with different patterns and techniques, and started selling my work in early 2026. 

I enjoy beading because it gives me a chance to slow down, focus, and be present in the moment. The repetitive process of working with each bead feels calming and meditative, and beading has become an important form of self-care for me.

It also gives me a strong sense of connection to my culture and to the traditional arts I was introduced to growing up. In my work I also incorporate caribou antler, fur and hide as a way of carrying forward the teachings I’ve always heard from Tlicho elders about never wasting any part of the caribou. Using these materials reminds me of the importance of respecting the animal and making use of what has been provided to us. 

I enjoy carrying those teachings and experiences with me while creating my own designs, and I hope to continue learning, growing my skills, and sharing my art with others.