KSA grad showcased at Toronto's Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival
By Ari Lord
Naomi Bourque, a student of Nelson’s Kootenay School of the Arts (KSA), was selected to participate in the Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival in Toronto, from May 30th to June 2nd.
Bourque created ten elaborate ponchos to be worn by models in this fashion showcase.
Bourque uses traditional techniques and materials that honour her Indigenous culture.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to inform people and to showcase materials traditionally used that aren’t from this area. Because the majority of things I get are from up north. Being able to show people that and they can have that tactile experience is really special,” says Bourque.
Bourque was born and raised in Yellowknife, North West Territories and is of Gwich’in and Metis descent.
Being part of this festival is an incredible experience for this local artist.
“I’m learning that people are really hungry for Indigenous art,” says Bourque. “I’m excited that [the festival] accepted me.”
To learn more about what it took for Bourque to prepare for the big show, click this link to read the Hall Printing Daily Dose Reporter Ari Lord’s story.
