Artist Talk with Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade
Part of the Visiting Artists programme organized in collaboration with the Pierre Lassonde School of Fine Arts
Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade is a Mi’gmaq business owner, fashion designer, artist, and beader. Originally from Listuguj, Quebec, and now based in Millbrook, Nova Scotia, she grew up in her community around culture, language, and Mi’gmaq way of life. She is also a jingle dress dancer in which she participates in pow wow celebrations across Turtle Island. She also has a passion for sewing, designing, and creating. Since 2012, Cheyenne has owned her self-titled brand/business, originally called Wasoweg (flower in Mi’gmaq) Creations, which mostly focused on beaded creations such as earrings, necklaces, bangles, rings, medallions, beaded ropes, and moccasins. This eventually morphed into Chey Designs, her current fashion/design label.
With a good foundation of traditional based knowledge of Mi’gmaq culture and art (past and present), Cheyenne also reflects her personal style throughout her designs. She obtained a certificate at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design in the Foundations and Aboriginal Visual Arts Program, and she is currently teaching the course Beadwork: Culture and History at Mount Allison University. She continues to sharpen her entrepreneurial skills through various forms of training and experiences. Her work has travelled across the country and world, worn by influencers, artists, respected officials, and has been featured in films, the media, and music videos. Cheyenne aspires to continue to create meaningful fashion and bring the presence of Indigenous designs to the forefront of the fashion industry, while continuing to support, giveback, and carry on culture through all of her work.
Masks are required at the Owens and in all buildings at Mount Allison University.
