As a native adoptee, my adoptive parents have always tried to incorporate elements of my culture into my upbringing. Through the Hamilton Native Center, I engaged in youth activities and attended cultural events.
A Cree woman approached my parents to teach both me and her brother how to bead, we were taught traditional beading techniques.
Presently, I create beautifully designed jewelry with high standards
and I'm very meticulous of how each piece is finished and made. Thanks
to the Ontario Arts Council, I have learned Traditional Ojibway Crafts
such as birch bark bowls, birch bark containers, and traditional Ojibway
dolls.
I am a mother of three, and currently my two younger children enjoy being creative with me. I enjoy sharing these skills with them.
You can see more of Crystal's wonderful bead work on her Etsy page.