'Bringing quillwork back': Ojibway artist breathes new life into traditional artform
CTV
Amber Waboose of the Batchewana First Nation in northern Ontario is drawing acclaim for revitalizing the traditional Indigenous artform of quillwork.
Waboose’s designs using porcupine quills are eye-catching, intricate and detailed. When she does decide to put some of her rare work up for sale on her Etsy page, it's typically bought in less than 20 minutes.
“Especially the traditional Ojibway floral designs, bees, birds or strawberry designs. I sold my art all over Turtle Island and Australia [to] people who appreciate quillwork earrings, medallions, pins and broaches – I just haven’t made a hat yet,” Waboose, who is from the Batchewana First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., told CTV National News.
Her quillwork includes traditional Ojibway designs of strawberries, flowers and the animals around her, but she is also inspired by pop culture. Other pieces feature designs from Star Wars, Marvel, Dragon Ball Z and the Legend of Zelda.
