Learn how to make ancestral Indigenous beadwork. Create a beaded orange-shirt pin, guided by Ojibway artist Kelly Nahwegahbow Marsolais. Reflect upon the poignant significance of this design, in light of National Truth and Reconciliation Day. Beginners and beaders of all skill levels are welcome!

Parents/guardians must remain at the Museum for the duration of the workshop, and are welcome to attend the session, free of charge, to help their child. To create a beaded piece of their own, adults must also register for a spot.

About the Artist
Kelly Nahwegahbow Marsolais, Ojibway — Wolf Clan

Kelly is a self-taught multidisciplinary artist, and a member of the Whitefish River First Nation, Birch Island, Ontario. Kelly is a storyteller, metalworker, entrepreneur, avid beadworker, and regalia maker. Her artistic and career interests became a reality when she launched her jewellery company, The Beading Drum Jewelry Originals, with her Mom in 1996.

Kelly and her Mom are an exceptional beading team. Their work can be found locally and internationally and, over the years, they have been commissioned to create moccasins for The Toronto Raptors, stunning beadwork for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s prima ballerinas, and much more.

Kelly continues to produce stunning creations for everyone to enjoy. Through the collective effort of sharing traditional knowledge, history and culture, Kelly has greatly enhanced cross-cultural understanding.