Beverly McEwen

My father’s family are Red River Métis from Winnipeg and the Qu’Appelle Valley. I am originally from Penticton, British Columbia and my family moved to Ontario when I was young. Like so many Métis, my culture was hidden from us as my father did not want us to experience the discrimination he had suffered. True Métis spirit, however, cannot remain hidden as I found beadwork, or perhaps it found me after I retired.

Beadwork is medicine and is a gift. Beading alone is contemplative, restorative and quietly connects me to my culture and ancestors. Beading circles create community, friendship and learning opportunities. This art form enabled me to connect to Red River Métis in Manitoba and Beyond Borders that otherwise would not have been possible. Wahkowtowin is my inspiration and my grounding – every time I sit down to bead, I want my pieces to honour connections to nature, kinship, community and ancestors.