As a beadweaver for more than 30 years, I've come to think of this ancient craft as an outlet for my many visual inspirations. From traditional Baltic, Slavic, Scandinavian, Asian and Arabic motifs to the customary patterns of the many Aboriginal Peoples of North America, I revel in the shapes and colours with which we decorate our lives. Growing up near the Great Lakes, I was first introduced to beadwork by the Ojibwe People of that area, with whom I proudly share my heritage. This beautiful melding of history and craftsmanship sparked something in me as a young child, and beadweaving has remained my beloved creative outlet to this day. I am proud to be carrying on the long tradition of beadweaving, and hope to do my part to bring the beauty of this amazing craft into wider contemporary awareness.