About the Artists
My name is Tanisha Pahtayken, I am a nehiyaw iskwew, a Cree woman from the Treaty 6 territory, with deep connections to the Onion Lake Cree Nation and Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in Saskatchewan. I now make my home in Vancouver, British Columbia, where I continue to grow and evolve as an artist.
I have participated in ceremonial practices and traditional celebrations since I was a little girl. Cultural traditions have always been at the heart of who I am. From attending powwow celebrations to travelling to ceremony, I was raised in spaces that allowed me to see and understand the world through an Indigenous lens. That upbringing continues to shape not only who I am, but also how I approach my artwork and creative practice.
Working with my hands through sewing, beading, and other traditional art forms came naturally to me. I began creating at an early age, first making pieces for myself and my family. Over time, this grew into a passion that I am now grateful to share with others.
As my skills have developed, so has my understanding of what it means to create. My artwork has become a way for me to share my own story while also helping bring the visions and stories of others to life through their colours, designs, and experiences. Each piece is personal, and I believe there is meaning in the time, intention, and care that goes into creating it.
Patience is an important part of being a creative. I have learned to embrace the process rather than rush it, understanding that every piece has its own journey and story. For me, crafting and working with my hands is medicine. It is a way of grounding myself, connecting with my culture, and expressing something that words cannot always capture. I hope to carry that feeling forward and share it with others through my work.
I am grateful for the opportunity to share my artwork with you and to connect with people who value and appreciate Plains Cree art and creativity. Good intentions are embedded into each piece I create, and my journey as an artist is still unfolding.
I am thankful and excited to see where this journey takes us as we continue to learn, create, and share what means the most to me.
Thank you for your interest in our work. I truly look forward to connecting with you.
Pavel Desjarlais
My name is Pavel, and I am a Plains Cree and Dene artist with roots in northern Alberta and connections to Janvier, Fort McKay, and Frog Lake Cree Nations. Although I have spent much of my life living in Vancouver, British Columbia, my cultural roots and the teachings I have gained throughout my life continue to shape who I am and how I express myself as an artist, performer, and community member.
From a young age, I grew up travelling to ceremonies and powwow celebrations, learning through lived experience, observation, and participation in cultural practices. These experiences gave me opportunities to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge that continue to guide me today. They taught me the importance of community, cultural connection, and sharing knowledge with others. My upbringing has played a significant role in shaping my understanding of the world and my place within it.
My creative journey extends beyond the artwork I make with my hands. I participate in men’s northern traditional dancing, powwow singing, ceremonies, and motivational speaking. Each of these practices offers a different way to connect with people, share teachings, and contribute to the communities around me. Whether I am singing in the arena, dancing, speaking, or creating, I value the opportunity to bring people together and share what I have learned throughout my journey.
Through quillwork and jewelry making, I continue to explore my creativity and develop my skills as an artist. Working with traditional materials allows me to express myself in a hands-on way while contributing to the continuation of Indigenous art forms. I value the patience, attention, and intention that go into creating each piece, recognizing that the creative process is an opportunity to learn, grow, and share something meaningful with others.
Being part of a community has always been important to me. I believe in showing up for others, building meaningful connections, and using my skills and experiences in ways that can support and inspire those around me. Whether through art, performance, speaking, or community involvement, I strive to remain open to learning and to the many ways I can contribute.
As an artist and member of the T. P. Creative Collective, I look forward to continuing to grow, collaborate, and share our work with others. Through our creative practices, we hope to honour our cultural connections, bring ideas and visions to life, and create meaningful pieces that people can carry with them. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work and experiences, and I look forward to where this journey will lead.
Ay-hiy