A captivating new exhibition at Montreal’s McCord Stewart Museum is showcasing the intricate world of Indigenous beadwork through a project by the talented visual artist, Carrie Allison.
Titled “askōhtēskanohwē,” this mesmerizing display will be open to the public from September 30, 2026, to February 28, 2027, as part of the eighth edition of the Biennale d’art contemporain autochtone (BACA).
Carrie Allison’s journey in developing this exhibition was deeply personal, drawing inspiration from her family history and the beadwork treasures found in the museum’s Indigenous Cultures collection that hail from her family’s home region in northwest Alberta.
Through the Artist-in-Residence program at the museum, Allison had the unique opportunity to immerse herself in the collection, drawing on the wisdom and artistry of her ancestors to create a truly meaningful exhibition.
The project not only showcases pieces from the Godet collection at the McCord but also introduces new work from Allison’s recent series, offering a fresh perspective that bridges the past with the present.
By reimagining traditional beadwork and exploring the kin relationships that have influenced the art form in northwest Alberta, Allison hopes to convey the enduring legacy of Indigenous material culture and storytelling.
With a focus on inclusivity and intergenerational engagement, the exhibition features interactive elements like BEADZ 2.0, inviting children and families to play, create, and connect with the art in a dynamic and immersive way.
Carrie Allison’s artistic vision, rooted in her nêhiýaw and Métis inheritances, serves as a powerful ode to the past while paving the way for future generations to embrace their cultural heritage and creativity.
Through “askōhtēskanohwē,” visitors are invited to witness the beauty and diversity of Indigenous artistry, celebrating the richness of tradition, storytelling, and connection to the land.
Keyphrase: Indigenous beadwork exhibition
