The Artist

Taanishi Kristyn McDougall dishinihkaashoon (hello, my name is Kristyn McDougall). I am a Michif beadwork artisan from Saskatoon, SK, situated on the Homeland of the Métis and Treaty 6 Territory. I began beading in 2023 and quickly realized I had a talent for the artform. I began selling beadwork shortly afterwards as a side income while I pursued my Juris Doctor degree at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Law and have sold pieces to over 700 customers across North America and further abroad. I am currently a Juris Doctor holder, with a specialty in Indigenous Governance and Politics and work in Indigenous Wellness Research at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Medicine.

I continue to do beadwork because I am deeply invested in my Michif culture and community, and beadwork is a medium where I can embrace and promote my Indigenous culture. I truly believe that contemporary Indigenous art forms are vital to preserving Indigenous cultural practices, expressions, traditions and visions. It also sustains our cultural continuity and Indigenous futures. I do my best to support other Indigenous artists and also play my part as an advocate and contributor in our community.

Maarsii <3