Indigenous Quillwork in Manitoba
The pieces featured are part of the mámawihítowin | Ganaagishlwadaadiwin | Asenbli | Recontre | Gathering Exhibit (March 3 - April 29, 2023).
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Quillwork refers to the Indigenous art of using colored porcupine quills to decorate various items such as clothing, bags, medicine bundles and regalia.
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
It was traditionally performed by women, such as among the Blackfoot where they would recite prayers, wear certain ornaments or body paint. It was believed to confer spiritual power in Mi’kmaq culture.
The Métis adapted quillwork to suite their own artistic expressions. They used vibrant colors, like red, blue and yellow, and bold expressions that reflected their vibrant culture and attitude.
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
The Métis also adapted their quill embroidery skills to new European techniques, such as silk embroidery and patterns. The quills had to be collected and worked before they were ready to be manipulated as a craft item.
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
This particular headband was made using multiple dyed quills. Intricately made, it showcases geometric designs in vibrant colors.
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
HeadbandManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Mona Moquin, who is a Métis artist, led an Introduction to Quillwork workshop where participants learned the zigzag technique of quillwork.
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
Introduction to Quillwork WorkshopManitoba Crafts Museum and Library
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.