ARTISTIC EXCHANGE
Tina Goulet-brett with Cree-ative Crocheting was one of the many vendors at the Downtown Farmers Market during Indigenous Peoples Day on Sunday.
Indigenous and Metis creators were on full display at the Downtown Farmers Market Sunday during National Indigenous Peoples Day.
As many other celebrations were moved online due to the COVID -19 pandemic, the farmers market boasted traditional clothing, art and jewelry.
Tina Goulet-brett with Creeative Crocheting was working on a new piece of clothing shortly after 2 p.m. as she told a young customer where she could learn Cree in the city.
Goulet-brett said that having a spot at the farmers market allowed her not only to sell clothing inspired by the Metis sash but also to help pass on her craft.
“If somebody shows up and wants to learn and there’s nobody around, I’ll sit and give them a quick teach, send them on their way with a hook and a ball of yarn,” said Goulet-brett.
She said almost all of her creations incorporate the Metis sash or the orange and blue of her beloved Edmonton Oilers. The sash incorporates red, blue, green, yellow, black and white, with every colour having a deep meaning connecting to Metis heritage and beliefs.
“I only just found out last year that we had our own family sash. I mean, that’s how hidden the information is and I mean, day to day, I’m still learning,” Goulet-brett said.
She said Indigenous Peoples Day is a chance to honour the first people of North America and learn about their history.
“I think it’s important. Why hide it? Good and bad (history), it should all be known,” Goulet-brett said.
The City of Edmonton’s Indigenous Day celebrations were moved online this year after 2019 celebrations were held throughout the city.
Tracy Chenoweth, who was behind the Indigenous Artists Market Collective booth Sunday, said the market gave them a bit of a silver lining after local and national celebrations were subdued.
“It’s just nice to get out there and share our culture and colours. They all have meanings and everybody’s able to understand us a little bit more,” Chenoweth said.
She called it a “sweet treat” to be able to be at the market and help answer questions any customers had.
Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson said Sunday was a day to honour the unique history and cultures of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples.
“I encourage all Albertans to take the time to learn more about how Indigenous cultures and contributions have enriched the province we know today,” Wilson said.