"Atihk" is Michif for Caribou. Caribou are an important animal in Metis culture, as they were used as a food source for many. Caribou also have a rich history in arts and crafts of Metis people, having hair that is ideal for tufting. The art of tufting was invented by Metis women (Katherine Bouvier is often credited) and is done commonly with Moose hair, but Caribou hair is also frequently used. I wanted this piece to honour the Metis tradition of strong Matriarchs, the backbone of Metis arts and culture. Caribou are not only an important tool in traditional arts, but for me personally, a symbol of feminine strength. Female Caribou have antlers just like their male counterparts. To continue the theme of honouring arts that are commonly associated with women (though not exclusively!), I used a ribbon skirt motif as the background, with ribbons on a floral pattern that uses dots to simulate beadwork. The colour palette is warm, to compliment the feminine themes but also to provide more atmosphere and give the piece a feeling of sunset, or golden hour. 
 
This painting is 12X16 inches on a gallery wrapped canvas out of my studio in beautiful North Battleford, and was completed in April of 2025.