+1 437 886 1408
nanipek@mushkegowuk.ca
Wachey Miseway (Hello everyone). My name is Sharon Butterfly and I am a Cree Artist from the James Bay region who was born and raised in Moose Factory, Ontario. I currently reside in Timmins, ON.
My artistic roots come from my grandmother and mother who were both active in creating moccasins, mitts, beaded crafts, etc. I was taught to make beaded necklaces as a child and would sit with my grandmother along the bank of Moose Factory, selling our artwork to tourist visiting the community. As I grew, I lost interest in beading and crafting but I would often sit and watch my grandmother and mother sew or bead.
In my late 40’s I started buying beads and leather but never seemed to find the time to start a project. In my early 50’s I wasn’t able to work because of health issues and that was when I finally picked up my beads and started working on some projects. Eventually, I felt comfortable enough to sell my crafts to people and started attending crafts shows to sell my art.
I am back to work once again, but I still try and find time to pick up my beads and create in my free time. Beading and creating is my medicine.
Our mission is to foster connection, opportunity, and knowledge-sharing for those who create (Oshichikesiwuk). In doing so, we empower the voices of Mushkegowuk Cree to express the sacred connection between our people, water, land, and all our relations.
We envision a future where the voices of Omushkegowuk creators (Oshichikesiwuk) are empowered and valued, ensuring a legacy of harmony between culture and sustainability that resonates through generations connected to the James Bay Coast (Nanipek).
