Photo: Five Métis artists are showcasing contemporary Red River beadwork and intergenerational mentorship in Beading Métis Resurgence, a new exhibition at Gallery 1C03 running until to April 17. Photo courtesy Gallery 1C03 at the University of Winnipeg on Facebook./Supplied photo
By Steven Sukkau
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Winnipeg Sun
Five Métis artists are bringing Red River beadwork into renewed focus at Gallery 1C03, with an exhibition that highlights both ancestral knowledge and contemporary experimentation.
Beading Métis Resurgence runs until April 17 at the University of Winnipeg campus gallery. The show features beadwork by Jennine Krauchi, David Heinrichs, Vi Houssin, Claire Johnston and Brianna Oversby, and is accompanied by a series of free public events designed to expand discussion around contemporary Red River Métis beadwork.
The exhibition is co-curated by Gallery 1C03 director Jennifer Gibson and University of Winnipeg history professor Dr. Cathy Mattes. Organizers say the show aims to elevate an art form that, until recently, has not received widespread critical attention in mainstream gallery spaces.
The exhibition pays particular tribute to Krauchi, described as a matriarch of Métis beadwork resurgence. Her intricate pieces have appeared in national and international museums and exhibitions, and the show underscores her mentorship and collaboration with fellow bead artists Heinrichs, Houssin, Johnston and Oversby.
Mattes said each artist brings a distinct voice to their work while remaining grounded in shared cultural knowledge.
“While each of these contributing artists has developed a unique voice through their beadwork creations, they all hold deep knowledge of and respect for ancestor art, the ability to beautifully share stories visually, a love for materiality, rigorous experimentation with materials, and a commitment to being in relation with each other via reciprocal beaded love,” Mattes said.
Additional programming includes a beading workshop led by Krauchi on March 2 at the Indigenous Student Services Centre; a March 15 critique and conversation session for intermediate to advanced beaders with Katherine Boyer, Krauchi and Dr. Sherry Farrell Racette at the Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre; and a public artist conversation March 23 in EG Hall at Centennial Hall.
Gallery organizers say the exhibition and related events are intended to foster community engagement and deepen understanding of Métis artistic traditions as living, evolving practices.