Brett Douglas McDowell – Red River Métis Beadwork

Brett Douglas McDowell – Red River Métis Beadwork

My name is Brett Douglas McDowell, and I am a proud citizen of the Red River Métis Nation and a member of the St. François Xavier Local. I was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, surrounded by strong family ties and deep cultural roots. My uncle, Larry Martineau, was inducted into the Manitoba Fiddle Wall of Fame (2019) and the Canadian Fiddle Hall of Honour (2022) for his exceptional playing—carrying forward the rich musical legacy of our people.

For me, beadwork is more than art—it’s storytelling, resistance, and healing. Every piece I create holds meaning, often reclaiming power from systems of corruption and confronting the darker sides of industries like Hollywood. Major works include labels that explain each piece’s symbolism, story, and purpose—ensuring that every creation speaks clearly to those who wear or display it.

I design and select beads in collaboration with my wife, Eiko Ishiwata, a Japanese-Canadian artist who learned beading in her childhood. Together, we blend the flowing floral motifs of Métis beadwork with the refined, structured precision of Japanese techniques. Every bead is carefully chosen and placed like a puzzle piece—each one intentional, each pattern purposeful, flowing with quiet strength.

My background spans fashion, photography, music, and design. I manage the website for designer Stevie Crowne and have worked in both modeling and creative direction. Eiko brings expertise in traditional painting, character design, and costume creation. I also record and perform music under the name Kihkâwâķîs.

Together, Eiko and I are strong advocates for accurate Indigenous representation in film—particularly for the Red River Métis. Our resistance to Hollywood’s ongoing misrepresentation led us to beadwork as a form of healing, therapy, and cultural reclamation.

Notable pieces include:

  • The Slingshot bead medallion for Minister Will Goodon
  • The Virgin Mary beadwork, displayed in President David Chartrand’s office

Each design incorporates seasonal color theory, helping wearers feel grounded, empowered, and connected. Whether cool pastels for summer or bold, warm tones for autumn, every color is chosen with purpose.

This is more than beadwork—it’s living history. It’s Métis resilience, love, and healing stitched into every piece, infused with the influence of Japanese artistry. People have started calling it Nouveau Michif—a meeting of tradition and innovation, echoing the past while reaching boldly into the future.