Made in Canada

Materials: Smoked Elk hide, Vintage beads, Steel cut beads, Surgical steel cut hooks
Size: 3 x 2"

Indigenous Market items are authentically hand-crafted by Indigenous artists.
Artists receive 100% of the profits of each sale.

Coral's Story: Coral Madge is a Two Spirit Deh'cho Dene and Metis-Cree artist originally from Fort St. John, BC, who has been residing in Alberta since 2009. At the age of 17, Coral began their journey with Big Bear Moccasins, a venture that has been a cornerstone of their life and work. Their sewing skills not only supported them through college but also provided a fulfilling career after graduation. Coral’s expertise in traditional beadwork earned them a position at a museum, where they care for and study vintage beadwork.

Coral is dedicated to reviving and preserving antique Indigenous styles, drawing inspiration from Dene floral motifs and traditional techniques. By utilizing almost exclusively vintage beads and materials such as smoked hide, wool, and velveteen, Coral creates pieces that blend the rich heritage of their ancestors with contemporary aesthetics. This approach brings the brilliance of traditional Indigenous art into the modern context.

Reflecting on their journey, Coral shares, "My mom taught me to bead when I was 17 and told me stories of growing up sewing with her grandma and speaking her language. Beading and traditional arts guided me through a dark time in my life and have allowed me to support myself." Through their artistry, Coral continues to honor their cultural legacy and share its beauty with the world.

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