Métis beadwork exhibition debuts at Winnipeg gallery

Five accomplished Métis artists are honouring Michif culture and knowledge systems while charting bold new artistic directions in “Beading Métis Resurgence,” an upcoming exhibition at Gallery 1C03 at the University of Winnipeg.

The exhibition runs Feb. 12 -April 17, and features an expansive series of free public events designed to deepen engagement with contemporary Red River Métis beadwork.

Curated by Gallery 1C03 Director/Curator Jennifer Gibson and University of Winnipeg Associate Professor of History Dr. Cathy Mattes, the exhibition highlights the work of Jennine Krauchi, David Heinrichs, Vi Houssin, Claire Johnston and Brianna Oversby.

“Beading Métis Resurgence” brings overdue attention to Red River Métis beadwork—an artform that, until recently, has not received sustained critical recognition. Through intricate, innovative beadwork pieces, the artists both preserve ancestral practices and expand the medium’s expressive possibilities.

The exhibition pays tribute to Krauchi’s leadership as a matriarch of Métis beadwork resurgence. Her meticulously crafted works have been featured in national and international museums and exhibitions, and her mentorship has helped shape a new generation of bead artists. The show underscores her intergenerational collaborations with Heinrichs, Houssin, Johnston and Oversby.

Dr. Mattes notes that while each artist has cultivated a distinct creative voice, they share a deep respect for ancestral art forms, a gift for visual storytelling, a love of material experimentation and a commitment to reciprocal relationships expressed through beadwork.

Public programs and activations

The exhibition includes a dynamic lineup of community-centered events:

• Beading Workshop with Jennine Krauchi
  Monday, March 2, 12:30–2:30 p.m.
  Indigenous Student Services Centre, Lockhart Hall (second floor)
  Open to the University of Winnipeg community.
• Critique and Conversation for Intermediate to Advanced Beaders
  With Katherine Boyer, Jennine Krauchi and Dr. Sherry Farrell Racette
  Sunday, March 15, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
  Wii Chiiwaakanak Learning Centre (511 Ellice Avenue)
  Pre-registration required.
• Conversation with the Artists
  Monday, March 23, 2:30 p.m.
  EG Hall, Centennial Hall (third floor)
• Find Your Stitch Workshop with Cathy Mattes
  Date to be announced.

For more information, click here.