NWT Arts

I make traditional arts – moccasins, mitts, slippers, knife cases, wraparounds, moss bags and so on. I’m mostly self-taught, either by watching others work or by learning on my own. My favorite items to make are wraparounds and high tops because I can add my own twist to them. I like to be able to create unique artwork, and I can do that through sewing.

I started sewing about five years ago. My sister came home and said: “I need you to learn to make a pair of moccasins”, even though I had never sewn anything in my life! She said: “You’re the most crafty one in our family, here are some uppers, mom has leather – figure it out!” So I did! And although I wasn’t planning on sewing again, it turned into a hobby that I really enjoy.

My favorite part about making art is creating unique items. That’s one of my main goals. I don’t like to make the same things twice. I’ll always use different colours and different types of material, which means that no one will walk down the street seeing the same exact thing they’re wearing on someone else. On a more personal level, making art makes me feel calm. I live a busy life; I have a job, I sit on boards, and I have a family. So when I can sit and sew, it’s time I get to spend for myself, while feeling connected to my culture. I’m hoping to bring some of that back with my artwork.

Sewing is a tradition that has been getting lost over the years. It only used to be done by Elders. My aunt sewed for my sisters and I when we were younger. I always thought it was so neat to receive a pair of canvas high-tops and matching mitts to go with it for that winter – and I never really thought it would be something that would be hard to come by. We took it for granted. At one point, my auntie couldn’t sew anymore and that’s when I thought I should stick to it. I love that it’s something I can teach my kids. My son sits and watches me and I’m hoping my daughter will pick it up. I know this skill won’t be completely lost for our family.