Indigenous Embroidery in Manitoba

Métis women played a crucial role in establishing Métis material culture. They blended the artistic practices of their other Indigenous and non-indigenous kin to create bright and elaborate designs seen in their clothing and other accessories.

Traditional techniques were employed on commercially tanned leather for these moccasins. The fine gatherings and intricate embroidery work speak to the maker's high-level skill.

European techniques of silk embroidery and European floral patterns were introduced to Métis girls in Catholic mission schools in Red River during the 1830s. They worked with other European materials like glass, metal beads, velvet and wool.

Métis girls and women experimented with various styles and decorations outside of the Catholic nuns’ influence. As a result, they developed their own unique artistic traditions.

They often used floral designs in embroidery, with patterns of curving stems, delicate leaves, berries, flower buds and flowers.

Flowers are usually embroidered in shades of pink through red, with the buds in shades of blues and purples. The flowers’ centres are white or dark yellow, and the leaves are green. A three-dimensional effect is produced with a combination of layering.

Métis beadwork and embroidery are often placed on highly visible areas where there is little wear, such as the back of mittens, hats, moccasin vamps, and the back yokes of jackets. Color and designs are usually associated with specific families.

This embroidery work is the genesis of later Métis decorative arts. Unfortunately they were damaged by water and lost their embroidered gauntlet cuffs, but we can still see the artist’s outstanding skill in her expressive leaves and elaborate stems.