Family of Mittens

“When I made this body of work, I was going through a challenging period in my life. A close friend of mine commented on how the white beads were uncharacteristic of my work – she was used to seeing vibrant playful colours. Beading the white flower drew from me all the energy that I had. The white flowers were reflective of how I was feeling at the time. After months passed and I revisited the mittens, I came to understand that the white colour was also symbolic of water. The relationship between the waters and the colour white and healing gave me comfort and a sense of peace. Every day, the waters of Lake Superior greets me with teachings around solace, humility and strength.

I can see the purpose why these mitts exist now: the importance of using my voice so I am heard; the importance of creating boundaries for self-preservations; making time for contemplations, and the importance to talking to myself in a loving way all within relationships and context of my family, culture and community.”