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Blueberry Beginnings: an Introduction to Porcupine Quillwork

Learn the art of porcupine quillwork with Indigenous artist Christine Toulouse. Create a blueberry design on birchbark and explore the traditions behind this beautiful Indigenous art form.

This program is conducted through Zoom. Register to receive the Zoom link, a reminder, the evaluation, and any other resources.

Porcupine quills are harvested, softened, dyed, and skillfully folded, wrapped, or sewn to decorate hide, bark, and clothing. In this workshop, you will learn about working with porcupine quills and how they are connected to traditional Indigenous art.

Program runs on Wednesdays, from June 3-17, from 7:00-8:30 pm. Plan to attend all sessions.

Material Provided

Pick up your program kit at the Central Branch, 2311-12th Ave,  from May 15  to  May 31. One kit per registered customer.

Kits not picked by 10:00 AM on June 1st will be given to the waitlist.

•  June 3     https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87254352429?pwd=Wiyg63btbnSsaMtO34KxbV5dWLURbz.1
•  June 10   https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84130470712?pwd=blNssbTaeFEhuLqhaod1hEaD2g0CxG.1
   June 17   https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81674981000?pwd=bfZ1X225WrOfsjFv6RzJzzqVfQk2E7.1

Presenter Bio

Christine Toulouse – Quillwork Artist

Discover the artistic world of Christine Toulouse, an emerging Anishinaabe artist from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation. Specializing in quillwork, an intricate form of embroidery utilizing dyed or natural-colored porcupine quills woven into birch bark, Christine's art is profoundly influenced by the wisdom passed down from her grandmother, Ida Toulouse. Her works symbolize the harmonious connection between the land, seasons, and memory.

Christine meticulously hand-harvests and processes natural materials, emphasizing the significance of quillwork as a transformative journey for learning, healing, growth, and sharing. Her work has garnered attention both locally and internationally, with notable exhibitions including Reconciliation in France, the Indigenous Art Exhibition in Mississauga, and the 47th Annual Indigenous Art Exhibition at Woodland Cultural Centre in Brantford.

Recognized as one of 11 Indigenous designers to watch by Refinery29, Christine also extends her influence through community workshops and public showcases, contributing to a broader understanding of quillwork practices. As an award-winning artist, she earned an honorable mention with the Trias Art Award from the Ottawa Art Gallery and the Ottawa Hospital for an art piece symbolizing the intersection of art and healing.

Interested in learning more? Follow the links to Christine's website and Instagram page.

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