The CBC Arts logo, but make it fashion — Indigenous fashion for Pride Month
Angel Aubichon transformed our logo into intricate beadwork to celebrate Pride and Indigenous History Month
Every month, we feature a new take on the CBC Arts logo created by a Canadian artist. Check out our previous logos!
When Angel Aubichon pitched us this design for National Indigenous History Month, we couldn't wait to see the finished result. It's the CBC Arts logo, but make it fashion — Indigenous fashion. And Aubichon, a Cree/Métis artist now living in Calgary, is the co-founder of Indi City, a line of beaded and acrylic accessories that she launched with partner Alexandra Manitopyes. This summer, she'll be bringing their jewellery collection to Japan as part of the Indig. Inc. trade mission to Tokyo, an initiative featuring more than 38 Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. But that's a whole month away! Let's focus on what's going on right now — the big debut of this beautiful piece of beadwork, which incorporates some traditional Métis florals. Just look at it!
Name: Angel Aubichon
Age: 34
Homebase: Calgary
Let's talk about your design! What inspired your take on the CBC Arts logo?
Who doesn't love CBC! I remember seeing the CBC Arts logos last year and thinking how amazing it would be to see that iconic logo beaded! So when the call came up I jumped on the opportunity.
How did you learn beading?
My blood memory taught me how to bead. It wasn't something I figured I would have patience to learn, but once I threaded my first needle and set out to learn, it was like I already knew how to do it. I come from makers and beaders so it makes sense that it's an inherited skill.
How did it become part of your art practice?
Back in the day, I really wanted to learn to be a pow wow dancer, and a part of that process is learning how to create one's own regalia. This was the initial inspiration for teaching myself how to bead. I didn't quite make it to the dance floor, or ever finish that original outfit, but I did fall in love with beadwork and accessory design as a result of that inspiration.
What's the project you're most proud of?
Last month we had to the opportunity to show our latest Indi City collection on the runway at Saskatchewan Fashion Week.
It was a huge blessing to be selected as a bursary winner and take our designs to show on our home territory. We shared the Heirloom Collection, which is a commemoration of our matriarchal lineage and also the Métis and Cree women that are never mentioned in history books. It features some of my kohkum's beadwork.
Who is the last artist you discovered online?
I have to shout out Mia Ohki! She's a phenomenal artist and coincidentally Japanese-Métis. Her work is constantly pulling on my heartstrings. Every time she posts a new illustration it's transformational.
What's your favourite place to see art?
There is so much art to see and mention — how do I pick one? Beadworkers have my heart because I know how much thought, breath and prayer goes into creating a piece of beaded art. It is a daily meditative practice, and serves as consistent pedagogy. Instagram is a great place to see what's happening in the contemporary bead world, but if you happen to catch a local craft show that features Indigenous artists, that's where the magic of smoked moose hide and beaded art is found. I'm a fan of Authentically Indigenous Craft Show here in Calgary, as it shows an amazingly curated collective of local artisans.
What work of art do you wish you owned?
If I could own a certain piece of art it would be a wearable art piece by Teresa Burrows or a mural by Christi Belcourt. In both of these dream scenarios I would donate the piece to a public space so everyone could enjoy the magic they create.
Where can we see more from you?
The best place to see what's current and happening is Instagram (@indi_city) and our website www.indicity.ca.