MARKETPLACE

2024 VIFW MAKER’S MARKET

The VIFW Artisan Market, due to its popularity and success, will continue take up the entire lobby of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Dozens of vendors will offer their unique, handcrafted items, including jewelry, apparel, beauty products, and more!

marketplace

  • Corrine Hunt, also known as Nugwam Gelatleg'lees, is a renowned 

    Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw/Tlingit artist, carver, jeweler, and designer from Vancouver, British Columbia. Born in 1959 and a member of the Raven Gwa'waina clan from Alert Bay, her rich heritage influences her artistic vision. Hunt's lineage includes notable Kwakwaka'wakw artists, and she attributes her uncle, Norman Brotchie, with igniting her passion for the arts. She pursued studies in Anthropology and Latin American Studies at Simon Fraser University, further enriching her cultural understanding.

    Hunt’s work spans intricate gold and silver jewelry, carved furnishings, and impressive sculptures, including installations at notable sites like the Hilton Hotel Whistler. In 2009, she co-designed the medals for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, marking a career highlight. Her designs also extend to eyewear, mukluks, and Canadian snowboarding jackets for the 2018 Olympics. Hunt’s artistry is celebrated for blending traditional and contemporary Northwest Coast designs.

            Socials: 

                        IG: @corrinehuntdesigner

                        FB: Corrine Hunt

  • Bada Jean is a Nehiyaw (Cree), Dene, and Welsh visual artist based on Lekwungen Territory. As a painter and illustrator, her art delves deeply into themes of love, community, and cultural significance, reflecting her rich heritage. Bada integrates Nehiyaw syllabics into her work, using this as an act of reconciliation and self-discovery, as she is actively learning her language and hopes to inspire others to engage with theirs. Her pieces are celebrated for their vibrant expression and layered symbolism, connecting viewers with Indigenous languages, traditions, and values. Through her art, Bada Jean offers a visual narrative that highlights the resilience and beauty of her culture, aiming to foster understanding and respect within broader communities. Her work stands as a testament to the power of art in healing, storytelling, and cultural preservation.

            Socials: www.badajean.com

                        IG: @bada_jean 

  • Sweetgrass Soap is an Indigenous woman-owned small business based in Langley, BC, celebrated for its handmade, thoughtfully crafted products. Known for unique items like the Deadly Aunty Soap, Bannock Bum Bum Body Butter, Lip-Pointing Grease, and Smudge Spray, Sweetgrass Soap blends quality skincare with a touch of Indigenous humor that resonates with all ages. Each product reflects a dedication to natural ingredients and cultural storytelling, creating a welcoming experience that connects users to Indigenous traditions in a modern way. With a commitment to inclusivity and cultural pride, Sweetgrass Soap has built a loyal community that appreciates both the quality of its offerings and the joyful spirit infused into its brand. Whether it’s soothing skincare or aromatic sprays, Sweetgrass Soap aims to provide comfort, laughter, and a sense of connection with each product.

          Socials: https://sweetgrasssoap.com/

                  IG: @sweetgrasssoap

  • Janelle Alladina, the owner of Indiginize Creation, is a proud Secwepemc member of the Williams Lake First Nation, now living on the coast. She crafts one-of-a-kind hat art that reflects Indigenous designs and teachings, drawing deep inspiration from Mother Nature. Each piece is a work of wearable art, meant to help people feel uniquely beautiful and connected to the land. Janelle’s process involves repurposing feathers from hunting and gathering traditional medicines from her home territory, infusing her creations with authentic, natural elements. Her mission is inspired by her own experiences: “Do it for the little rez girl who never saw herself or her culture represented in the fashion industry.” Through Indiginize Creation, Janelle brings visibility to Indigenous beauty and artistry, creating pieces that embody both style and cultural pride.

           Socials: indiginizecreation.ca

                     IG: @indiginize_creation

                    FB: Indiginize-Creation

  • Vina Brown is a Haíɫzaqv and Nuu-chah-nulth scholar whose Haíɫzaqvḷa name, ƛ̓áqvas gḷ́w̓aqs, translates to Copper Canoe Woman. She is the owner and creator of Copper Canoe Woman (CCW), an Indigenous jewelry design business that blends ancestral culture with modern aesthetics. The designs at CCW are deeply rooted in place-based traditions, stories, and the art of adornment, reflecting the unique beauty of Indigenous heritage. Vina’s personal style is influenced by a love of classic vintage maximalism, while also honoring the elegance of simplicity. Through CCW, she advocates for issues that directly impact her communities, the environment, and the healing and reclamation of land, culture, and wellness. Each piece created by Copper Canoe Woman embodies Vina's commitment to showcasing authentic, meaningful designs that celebrate both tradition and contemporary Indigenous identity.

                 Socials: www.coppercanoewoman.com/

                         IG: @coppercanoewoman 

                        FB: CopperCanoeWoman

  • Mia Hunt is a Heiltsuk artist from Bella Bella, BC, Canada, born Métis Cree and raised by the matriarchs of her community. Growing up in a family of artists, including her father, the renowned Miral artist Frank Lewis, and her mother Shirl and Robert Hall, creativity runs in her blood. Mia began her artistic journey as a teenager in 1972, studying carving at KSAN in Hazleton, BC. By 1973, she returned to Bella Bella, making traditional dance regalia, including button blankets, aprons, and tunics adorned with appliqué family crests, as well as weaving cedar bark headpieces and baskets. In 1984, she moved to Vancouver and began designing contemporary fashion, creating one-of-a-kind gowns, jackets, and wall hangings.

    In 2014, Mia began working with jeweler Harry Sarber, and in 2017, she took over his business, continuing his legacy of laser-cut sterling silver jewelry. Today, she runs a small family-operated jewelry business, with her grandchildren involved in the craft.

          Socials: 

                   IG: @mumahmia 

                  FB: lasersharpjewelry

  • Mike is a talented artisan from the Nlaka’pamux Nation in the southern interior of British Columbia. His passion for working with his hands began in childhood, guided by his grandmother, a Nlaka’pamux elder. Together, they moved to the High Arctic, where Mike was inspired by the Inuit’s mastery of stone and bone carving. The beauty and skill of their craftsmanship left a lasting impression on him.

    After returning to Spence’s Bridge, Mike spent his days exploring the Nicola River, collecting rocks, and honing his creative skills. This connection to the land and its materials fueled his artistic journey, which continues to evolve as he incorporates traditional Indigenous methods into his work. Through his art, Mike combines cultural heritage with personal creativity, creating pieces that reflect his deep connection to his ancestry and the natural world around him. His work is a testament to both tradition and innovation.

        Socials: Michaelhilldesigns.com

                 IG: @michaelhilldesigns

  • Shelly, known by her Kwakiutl name Yasakw, is a proud member of both the Haida and Kwakwaka’wakw Nations. Her Haida name, Guudangaay TlaatsgaaJaad, meaning "Strong Minded Woman," was given to her in recognition of earning a degree in social work. Shelly is from the matrilineal Haida Nation and descends from a long line of Kwiiungliis Yakgujanaas Raven clan women, with subcrests of three fin killer whale and dogfish. She is deeply connected to her late Naanii, Audrey Samuels, a residential school survivor and thriver, and her mother, Maureen Samuels.

    Paternally, Shelly hails from the Kwakwaka’wakw nation, where she holds her father’s crests: Thunderbird, double-headed sisiutl, and grizzly bear. Her father was the late master carver Awasatlas (Russell Smith), whose legacy continues to influence Shelly’s work and connection to her cultural heritage. Shelly is committed to preserving and sharing her Indigenous roots and traditions with future generations.

           Socials: www.Yasakw.co

                    IG: Yasakw_designs

                   FB: Yasakw Yakgujanaas Designs

  •  Larissa and Clayton Yamelst are the artists behind Yamelst Designs, a creative partnership that blends traditional Indigenous materials with contemporary design. Larissa hails from the Quw’utsun Tribes in Duncan, while Clayton is from the Nlaka’pamux Nation in Spence’s Bridge. Together, they create stunning pieces that feature materials such as Dentalium Shell, Abalone Shell, Conch Shell, Mother of Pearl Shell, Porcupine Quill, Deer Hide, and Semi-Precious Gemstones.

    Yamelst Designs was founded in September 2022, fueled by Larissa and Clayton’s shared passion for honoring their cultural heritage through art. Their creations celebrate the beauty of Indigenous craftsmanship, combining traditional elements with modern aesthetics to create unique, wearable pieces that tell stories of culture, identity, and connection to the land. As artists, Larissa and Clayton are dedicated to preserving their cultural practices while sharing their artistry with the world.

         Socials:  https://yamelst-designs.square.site/s/shop 

                  IG: @Yamelst.Designs

                 FB:  Yamelst.Designs

  • Sade M. Auger is a Northern Alberta Cree First Nations artist, spiritual healer, counselor, and jewelry designer. Her Traditional Indian name, “Pretty Voice Hawk Lace Woman,” was given to her in ceremony by her late Kookum (Grandmother), Rose Auger, and is an integral part of her identity. Sade’s jewelry journey began in 2009, three years after the passing of her Kookum, and the same year she completed her training as a Reiki Master.

    Sade combines her knowledge of healing and energy arts into her jewelry-making, blending creativity with spiritual connection. For Sade, creating jewelry is not only an artistic expression but a way to honor her grandmother, ancestors, the land, and her spirit. She uses natural gemstones and elements, valued for their spiritual, mental, and emotional healing properties, to promote beauty, wellness, and spirituality in her designs. Each piece is a reflection of her dedication to healing and cultural connection.

    Socials: www.hawklace.com

             IG: @hawklace

            FB: Hawk Lace

  • Wagella Hunt is a proud member of the Heiltsuk Nation from Bella Bella, BC, and Sapotaweyak Cree Nation from Manitoba (Treaty 4). She is the creative force behind Bella Cree Beads. Growing up in the East Vancouver Urban Indigenous community, Wagella learned beadwork from her mother, crafting items to sell at powwows and canoe gatherings to earn money for summer spending. She rediscovered beadwork during the pandemic as a way to soothe her mind after working in the Downtown Eastside, where she strives to Indigenize harm reduction and create systems change to better support Indigenous communities.

    Outside of her advocacy work, Wagella is deeply involved in cultural ceremony, dancing, and learning the Heiltsuk language. Her beadwork reflects her connection to both traditional symbolism and contemporary imagery, with a special focus on creating heirloom hats that can be passed down through generations. Each of her pieces is a unique, wearable work of art that tells the story of the wearer.

          Socials: 

                  IG: bellacreebeads 

                  FB: Bella cree beads

  • Culture Shock, winner of the 2022 BC Indigenous Achievement Award, is owned by 'Namgis sisters Andrea and Donna Cranmer, both accomplished artists and entrepreneurs. Andrea is the creator of "Elements of Style," where she combines traditional Northwest Coast elements with modern fashion by appliqueing them onto clothing and designing jewelry. Her work blends cultural heritage with contemporary design, creating unique, wearable art.

    Donna, a skilled traditional cedar bark weaver, designs jewelry and collaborates with silver and copper smiths to enhance her creations, adding a touch of "bakwam" (First Nations) bling to her pieces. Together, the Cranmer sisters honor their Indigenous roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary Indigenous art. Through Culture Shock, Andrea and Donna are dedicated to showcasing their cultural traditions and craftsmanship, while fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation in their community and beyond. Their work is a vibrant reflection of their heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.

         Socials: www.cultureshocklife.com

                    IG: @cultureshockgallery 

                   FB: cultureshocklife

  • Cedar Roots Collective is an Indigenous-led business focused on supporting, celebrating, and amplifying Indigenous artists through high-quality apparel, art, jewelry, and handmade goods. Each piece reflects a deep connection to ancestral traditions while embracing contemporary creativity and advocating for justice and sovereignty. At the core of Cedar Roots Collective are principles of choice, consent, and reciprocity. The artists receive industry-leading royalties, ensuring they are recognized and fairly compensated for their work, with all artists retaining ownership of their creations.

    Founded in 2024 by Phil Gray (Ts’msyen/Cree) and Hayf Abichahine (Palestinian/Lebanese), the collective's roots began with Phil’s creation of “Battikh,” a powerful design symbolizing Indigenous solidarity with Palestine and raising awareness of the ongoing genocide there. “Battikh,” meaning watermelon in Arabic, embodies the collective’s mission to unite Indigenous communities worldwide. A portion of all sales supports Indigenous organizations, furthering Cedar Roots Collective’s commitment to cultural advocacy and solidarity.

            Socials:  www.cedarrootscollective.ca

                     IG: @cedar.roots.collective

  •  Bio: Samantha is the owner and operator of Shining Bear Designs, an Indigenous-owned apparel company based in Coquitlam, the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Kwikwetlem First Nation. An Anishinaabe originally from Northern Ontario, Samantha has a background in business and graphic design. Her journey led her back to her roots and love for creating, finding purpose in inspiring others through her designs.

    After years of managing coffee shops and running a cleaning business, she discovered her true calling as the creator of "Wearable Teachings." Shining Bear Designs, now in operation for over three years, is carving out its place in the Canadian apparel industry. Samantha uses her designs to inspire and shed light on Anishinaabe culture, using the "Seven Sacred Laws" to share teachings of love, respect, and unity. She believes in the power of self-love and healing, hoping to inspire others to embrace their own journeys toward cultural restoration and wellness.

                 Socials: www.Shiningbeardesigns.com

                        IG: @Shiningbeardesigns

                        FB: Shiningbeardesigns

  • House of Win-chee is a clothing company led by Nuu-chah-nulth woman Denise Williams. The brand specializes in handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces, offering both women’s and men’s clothing, including daywear, evening wear, and accessories. Each item is carefully created in the studio, ensuring that no pieces are industrially manufactured, allowing for unique designs that reflect both traditional Indigenous craftsmanship and contemporary style. House of Win-chee is committed to creating high-quality, bespoke garments that honor culture while providing modern, wearable art. Through her work, Denise aims to empower wearers and celebrate Indigenous creativity.

  • Kwiis Hamilton is a Nuuchahnulth artist from Hupacasath and Sto:lo

    from L’equamel. He began glassmaking at 15 under the mentorship of Matt Eskuche, a world-renowned glass artist, and later studied scientific glass techniques with Mike Souza of Princeton University, mastering advanced methods of glass manipulation.

    In 2019, Kwiis transitioned to Northwest Coast jewelry arts, studying under Shawn Edenshaw and earning a certificate in jewelry arts and design. His training includes advanced hollow-form fabrication, engraving, design, and gem setting. Kwiis has also studied design and engraving under Morgan Asoyuf and Richard Adkins, further honing his skills in traditional and contemporary techniques.

    With a foundation in storytelling through creation, Kwiis’ work is deeply influenced by his Nuuchahnulth and Sto:lo

    heritage, incorporating elements of his cultural traditions into his designs and artistic practices.

    Socials:

    IG: https://www.instagram.com/kwiis.hamilton/?hl=en

Northwest territories

  • The NWT Arts Program collaborates nationally to support Indigenous artists in the Northwest Territories (NWT), creating economic opportunities and supporting their participation to markets and exhibits. NWT Arts aims to empower artists through specialized workshops and increase demand and appreciation for Indigenous-made works. The Program is excited be support five Indigenous creators to attend the 4th annual Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week, which will be the second year an NWT cohort has attended this prestigious marketplace event. Be sure to visit the NWT cohort on the second floor of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre to meet the following Indigenous creators from the NWT: Louise Speakman, Dixie Jenny Thompson, Marlene Tutcho, Elsie Canadien and Elaine Auger.

     

    Facebook handles: NWT Arts TNO, Beaded Little Things, Elsie Canadiens Creations, Sweet Beads Jewelry  

    Instagram handles:

    @nwtartstno

    @lou.beads

    @beaded.little.things

    @elsiecanadiencreations

    @sweetie_beads,

  • Elsie Canadien is a traditional Dene artist from Fort Providence, now based in Hay River. She creates unique, high-quality beaded, embroidered, and tufted pieces, including bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Working with materials such as birch bark, moose and caribou hair, fish skin, and vibrant beads, Elsie brings her culturally inspired designs to life. Her artistic journey began at a young age, learning from her mother and sewing on her own by nine years old. She sold her first tufting piece at 13, marking the start of her lifelong passion for the craft. Elsie’s work preserves Dene traditions while offering a fresh, modern perspective. Her goal is to create handmade pieces that will be cherished, carrying forward a legacy of artistry, culture, and connection for others to enjoy.

               Socials:

                       IG: @elsiecanadienscreations

                       FB: Elsie Canadien Creations

  • Elaine Grace Auger is a South Slave Dene artist from the K’atlodeeche First Nation, known for her intricate jewelry that reflects her rich cultural heritage. She began beading in 2009 and, by 2012, began sharing her work with the world. Elaine’s pieces are showcased in prominent venues such as the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Down to Earth Gallery in Yellowknife. Her work bridges tradition and contemporary design, connecting people to her Dene roots. Elaine also participates in local trade shows and farmers markets, actively sharing her craft with her community. Through each piece she creates, Elaine celebrates her culture, blending timeless Dene traditions with modern elegance. Her jewelry stands as a testament to her commitment to preserving and sharing her heritage.

                          Socials: 

                                   IG: @sweetie_beads

  • Dixie Jenny Thompson is an Inuvialuk beadwork artist and social worker from Fort McPherson. Specializing in handmade earrings, her style combines modern, minimalist designs with neutral tones like white, beige, and black. Jenny incorporates unique materials such as porcupine quills, caribou tufting, shells, hide, gemstones, birchbark, and Charlotte-cut and silver-plated beads. A key element in her work is the use of caribou antlers, which hold significant cultural meaning.

    Jenny’s beading journey began in 2018, when she learned the craft from an Elder while studying social work. Since then, she has connected with other artists to refine her skills. Beading has become a deeply personal and healing process, inspired by her late Aga’s love for the craft. Jenny’s creations honor her Inuvialuit heritage and make cultural expression accessible to all.

                    Socials: 

                         IG: @beaded.little.things

                         FB: Beaded Little Things

  • Louise Speakman is a Sahtu Got’ine beadwork artist based in Yellowknife. She creates contemporary beaded pieces, with a special focus on earrings that incorporate traditional elements like caribou tufting, quillwork, and smoked hides. Louise’s beading journey began in 2021 through trial and error, with support from her family and online tutorials. Her designs are deeply inspired by her Grandma, Dora Vital, an accomplished beader from Délįnę, and her Mom, who continues to influence her craft.

    For Louise, beading is more than an art form—it is a meditative and spiritual practice that connects her to her heritage and provides a creative outlet for personal healing. As she refines her craft, she is motivated by the goal of preserving and passing on this valuable cultural tradition to her community. Louise’s work can be found on Instagram, where she shares her unique designs and continues to inspire others.

                      Socials: 

                               IG: @lou.beads

  • Marlene is a talented beadworker and seamstress originally from Délįne. By day, she works full-time, but in the evenings and on weekends, she dedicates her time to her passion for beading and sewing in her home studio. Marlene spent many years honing her skills, and her hard work has shaped her into an accomplished artisan. Though her children are now grown and have families of their own, Marlene is eager to pass on her knowledge of traditional crafts whenever they are ready to learn. Her work is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of her people, and she takes great pride in preserving and sharing these skills with the next generation. Through her art, Marlene continues to honor her roots while embracing the joy of creating beautiful, meaningful pieces.

    Socials:

        FB: Marlene’s Creations Bead Work2

  • Gerren Peters grew up in Vancouver, where he was deeply influenced by his father, Tom Patterson, a student of the late Tony Hunt Sr. and a close friend of Tony Jr. and Stan Hunt. From a young age, Gerren was immersed in northern-style art, learning traditional carving techniques from his father. Over the past three years, Gerren has expanded his artistic practice by teaching himself Salish art, further honing his skills during the Covid-19 pandemic when he began experimenting with jewelry-making. His passion for art continues to grow, and he hopes to attend school to become a skilled metal smith, further developing his craft and continuing the legacy of Indigenous artistry passed down through generations. Gerren is dedicated to preserving his cultural heritage while exploring new creative avenues in the world of jewelry and metalwork.

            Socials: https://gerrenp.squarespace.com/

                       IG: @Gerrenp

  • Amanda Ruth McDermott honors her Cree and Métis heritage through her beadwork, drawing inspiration from her upbringing in Swan River First Nation, Alberta. Carrying the middle name of her Kokum and great Kokum, Amanda uses it in her business name to honor the strong Native women who raised her. Her beadwork reflects both her Cree roots and the contemporary style she has developed from living in the city. Amanda is passionate about passing on the traditions of her culture and facilitates beading workshops to teach the next generation. She also provides beading kits and supplies, sending them across Canada and the U.S. to help others connect with the craft. Through her work, Amanda Ruth McDermott celebrates her heritage while ensuring that the art of beadwork remains alive and accessible to all.

             Socials: www.amandaruthbeads.com

                       IG: @amanda_ruth_beads

  • SHISAKO, founded by designer Shannon Hickey, blends her Japanese and Indigenous heritage to create luxury accessories that embody minimalist elegance and mindful craftsmanship. Each handbag and footwear piece is designed with timeless aesthetics, transcending seasons and occasions. Drawing inspiration from her heritage and commitment to sustainability, Shannon’s creations honor both style and Mother Earth. Her designs balance enduring beauty with thoughtful functionality, offering versatile accessories that elevate any look.

    SHISAKO is dedicated to environmental stewardship, with every product reflecting this ethos. The inaugural collection features carefully selected materials such as organic fabrics, genuine leather, and natural tree rubber, reducing chemical use and waste. SHISAKO’s commitment to sustainability shapes every aspect of its production.

    Discover the exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable luxury of SHISAKO at our upcoming pop-up event, where you can explore how these thoughtfully designed pieces can elevate your everyday style while supporting a greener future.

             Socials: www.shisako.com

                      IG: @shisakodesign

  • Love the Land Apparel is a proudly Indigenous-owned and operated project that supports Indigenous communities, culture, and creativity. All designs are crafted by talented North West Coast and Coast Salish artists, including those from Squamish, Sechelt, and other local communities. Each piece of apparel reflects the rich heritage and artistic traditions of these Indigenous nations, bringing their stories to life through vibrant, meaningful designs. The production of Love the Land Apparel is based in West Vancouver, BC, ensuring that the brand remains closely connected to its roots while supporting local Indigenous businesses and artisans. Through this initiative, Love the Land Apparel not only offers high-quality fashion but also serves as a platform for Indigenous artists to share their culture and stories, fostering pride and unity within the community.

    4o mini

          Socials:  www.lovetheland.ca

                     IG: @lovethelandapparel

  • Natasha Seymour is a Tahltan, Tsimshian, and Nisga’a beadwork artist from the Etheni family of the Tahltan Nation, Raven Clan, based in Iskut, Terrace, and Kinkolith. Raised in Hazelton, BC, on Gitxsan Territory, Natasha has deep connections to her Indigenous roots. An educator and a 2011 graduate of the Native Indian Teacher Education Program at The University of British Columbia, Natasha turned to beadwork as part of her healing journey. Taught by her older sister, she learned the art form as a way to reconnect with her culture and ancestors. Inspired by Tahltan/Tlingit carver Dempsey Bob’s words, “We will survive trauma through culture,” Natasha found that beading was a powerful tool for healing and self-growth. Her work is grounded in love, positivity, and creativity, reflecting the teachings passed down through generations. Starting with flat stitch florals in January 2020, Natasha has continued to develop her beadwork, embracing the transformative power of art.

          Socials: www.Nativeglam.ca

                     IG: @Nativeglam

  • Mike Alexander is an Anishinaabe visual artist whose work reflects the vibrant traditions of the Woodlands School of Art. His bold, colorful Ojibwe paintings embody a deep personal journey of healing, using art as a medium to interpret and celebrate his cultural teachings and stories. For Mike, each piece is a form of medicine, a means of decolonization, and an act of reclaiming his heritage. Through his art, he invites viewers to connect with the Anishinaabe worldview and spirit, blending traditional symbolism with a contemporary edge. Mike’s work is not only an expression of his identity but also a tool for empowering and educating others on the resilience and beauty of Ojibwe culture. With each brushstroke, he continues to honor his roots, aiming to inspire a renewed sense of pride and connection to Indigenous heritage within his community and beyond.

          Socials: www.thunderclouddesigns.org 

                     IG: @thundercloud924

  • First Nations Innovations is a family-owned business rooted in the rich artistry of the Northwest Coast and proudly operated by Charles Harper, Mike Matilpi, Carrie Matilpi, Victoria Harper, and Randy Wisla. Each artist brings their unique skills and perspectives to the collective, creating a vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary Indigenous art forms. Their work includes a range of handcrafted items that showcase both heritage and innovation, from intricate carvings and jewelry to culturally inspired home decor. Together, they share a passion for preserving and celebrating their First Nations heritage, combining traditional knowledge with modern design elements to create pieces that resonate with audiences across generations. As a family, they emphasize collaboration and cultural integrity in every piece, embodying a commitment to their community and ancestral values. First Nations Innovations continues to expand, inspiring pride and appreciation for Indigenous culture through art that tells a story.

          Socials:

                     IG: first_nations_innovations_

  • Specializing in intricate beadwork, each piece reflects a connection to heritage, storytelling, and artistic expression with a punch of pop culture. Rooted in tradition yet embracing modern aesthetics, Small Town Earrings celebrates the beauty of Indigenous artistry through wearable designs.

    Socials:
    IG: @small_town_earrings

indigenous tourism bc

  • Indigenous Tourism BC is proud to showcase artisan from across BC – This artisan showcase highlights the talent and creativity of Indigenous artists and makers from across British Columbia. Featuring a wide array of handmade jewelry, clothing, artwork, and crafts, the market provides a platform for artisans to share their unique stories, cultural heritage, and skillful craftsmanship. Through this showcase, Indigenous Tourism BC supports the growth and recognition of Indigenous entrepreneurs, fostering connections between artisans and visitors to celebrate the vibrant diversity of Indigenous communities in BC.

    IG @IndigenousTourismBC

  • łlilawikw, also known as Sea Wisdom Design, is a Kwakwaka’wakw and British artisan whose lineage is steeped in generations of creative makers. Her traditional name, gifted to her through the Potlatch system, means "Gatherer of the People" and connects her to a long history of cultural traditions fought for and celebrated. Through Sea Wisdom Design, she creates meaningful relationships through symbols, imagery, and a shared love for the land, ocean, and culture of the coast. Her art has become a powerful tool for healing, connection, and growth, cherished by those who resonate with her deep connection to the environment. As an artist and adventurer, she draws strength and guidance from her ancestral roots, inviting others to join her in carving out spaces of celebration for who we are. Sea Wisdom Design is not only an artistic practice but a journey of cultural exploration and personal transformation.

         Socials: https://seawisdomdesign.com/

                   IG: @ms.seawisdom

                    FB: aseaweedwisden

  • Ashley Michel is a Secwepemc artisan from the Tk’emlúps Indian Band and the founder of 4 Generations Creations. A mother and recent Bachelor of Education graduate (2023), Ashley is a self-taught seamstress, artist, and entrepreneur with a passion for creating meaningful and culturally significant designs. Inspired by the birth of her daughter in 2013, Ashley recognized a lack of authentic Indigenous representation in fashion, media, and education. This motivated her to establish 4 Generations Creations, a business focused on empowering future generations through creative expression. By blending traditional Indigenous values with contemporary designs, Ashley’s work aims to educate others about Indigenous issues and celebrate the resiliency of her culture. Her business honors the strength of her mother, grandmothers, and ancestors, striving to provide a better future for her daughter and future generations.

            Socials:

                    IG: @4generationscreations

                   FB: 4 Generations Creations

  • Tammy LaFleur is an Indigenous crystal keeper, visual artist, storyteller, and mental health advocate from Kamloops, British Columbia. Currently based in Merritt, BC, Tammy is known for her unique crystal paintings, photography, and handcrafted wood boxes. Drawing inspiration from her cultural heritage and personal experiences, she creates art that serves as a medium for healing, storytelling, and emotional expression. Tammy’s work blends natural elements, such as crystals, with visual artistry to capture the beauty and power of the earth. A passionate mental health advocate, her art aims to foster connection, promote well-being, and inspire others to find strength through creativity. She graduated from Kamloops Secondary School and has since shared her art through her platform, Maskwaden.ca, to connect with others and bring attention to the importance of mental health. Tammy’s creations are a reflection of her commitment to healing, heritage, and personal growth.


    Socials: https://www.maskwaden.ca/home

  • Evelyn Caroline Basil is the artist and owner of Line 49 Jewelry, based in the Kootenay Rockies. A proud member of the Ktunaxa Nation, Evelyn creates distinctive jewelry pieces that showcase her cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Specializing in the use of elk teeth, bear claws, and her own silverwork, she combines traditional materials with modern design to produce truly one-of-a-kind pieces. In addition to her jewelry, Evelyn also creates other Ktunaxa crafts, preserving and celebrating the art forms of her ancestors.

    Although Evelyn once maintained a website, rising costs prevented her from renewing it, but her work can still be discovered through various online listings and by contacting her directly via email or phone. Line 49 Jewelry represents Evelyn's passion for creating meaningful, handmade pieces that reflect her cultural roots and personal style. With a dedication to preserving her traditions, Evelyn’s work is a testament to her talent and the strength of her heritage.

SHOP Nov 20-23

Check out the amazing makers at the 2024 VIFW Marketplace, pick up some new fav items!