Ehts'o nàtsʼeelıı (We Sew Beads) by Matthew Vukson

Ehts'o nàtsʼeelıı (We Sew Beads) by Tłı̨chǫ Dene Matthew Vukson is a new exhibit opening in the Mezzanine Gallery at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) on June 5, 2025. The opening reception is from 7:00 – 8:30 pm in the museum café.

Blending Dene artistry with his own imaginative powers, Matthew’s pieces are unique. He uses traditional techniques to new and novel effect, beading geometric patterns and symbols that he often incorporates into fashion. His poetic writings help describe the beadwork’s personal meanings. 

Through his artwork, he likes to share stories that are told by ever changing patterns and colours. He uses the healing power of art as a form of reclamation and reconciliation. The artistry, spirituality and empowerment of beading are his lifelong personal and research interests.

His work involves beading subject matter regarding traditional and contemporary practises through the lens of past, present and future.

 The most striking departure from ‘the norm’ is a series of sculptural objects. Created to represent the history of colonization and interpretations of justice, each tiny bead takes on the weight of oppression and control. Contrasting these heavy works, his stylized, free-form pieces express lightness, energy, and movement, centering Indigenous spiritualties as a source of healing.

“In beading stories are told by patterns but colours give these stories depth and feeling.” – Matthew Vukson. 

Don’t miss out on this exciting new exhibit!