From one generation to the next: Honouring The Red River Métis
- Aug 03, 2022
- Canadiana
- 3 minute read
The Red River Métis tradition of sharing and preserving knowledge by passing it on from one generation to the next through art and storytelling is celebrated on the latest coin in our Generations series. It tells the story of the Red River Métis through the intricate beadwork patterns of Manitoba Métis Master Beadwork artist Jennine Krauchi.
“I have always tried to tell our stories through my beadwork, whether it’s a personal story or a broader theme. For this coin, I tried to tell a little of the history of the Red River Métis, our struggles and hardships and what we have overcome as a people,” said Jennine.
The reverse of the 2022 Generations: The Red River Métis coin features an engraving of her original floral beadwork pattern (seen in the photos below at her studio) and includes elements of the Michif language.
Master Beadwork Artist Jennine Krauchi poses with her original design.
The Red River Métis tradition of sharing and preserving knowledge by passing it on from one generation to the next through art and storytelling is celebrated on the latest coin in our Generations series. It tells the story of the Red River Métis through the intricate beadwork patterns of Manitoba Métis Master Beadwork artist Jennine Krauchi.
“I have always tried to tell our stories through my beadwork, whether it’s a personal story or a broader theme. For this coin, I tried to tell a little of the history of the Red River Métis, our struggles and hardships and what we have overcome as a people,” said Jennine.
The reverse of the 2022 Generations: The Red River Métis coin features an engraving of her original floral beadwork pattern (seen in the photos below at her studio) and includes elements of the Michif language.
La Rivyeer Roozh, meaning the Red River, is inscribed at the base of the design, above which roots represent the Red River Métis homeland and ancestry. From the infinity symbol symbolizing the Métis Nation’s eternal and unbreakable spirit flow two bands representing the Red River. They contain the words Taapweeyimisho and Taapweeyimik lii Michif, for “Believe in yourself” and “Believe in (the) Métis”.
The fire in the centre of the design speaks to a period of repression and loss, but the prairie rose—a classic Red River Métis motif—represents the survival and cultural resurgence of the Nation. Long stems are characteristically adorned with two or three bead accents known as “mouse tracks”, while leaves and flower buds fill the pattern with a sense of love and joy.
“I never thought that my journey of Métis beadwork would result in having my design chosen to be featured on a coin. I am so very proud, humbled and honoured. I created this image in celebration of all my Métis ancestors and all of the beaders who came before me, right back to those who picked up the first bead and produced this beautiful art form.”
In collaboration with the Manitoba Métis Federation, we were proud to unveil this piece with Jennine at our facility in Winnipeg. You can celebrate the everlasting heritage of the Red River Métis by adding this coin to your collection today.
A living legacy of Northwest Coast art
From carving his first totem pole to sharing knowledge with his final apprentice Gwaai Edenshaw, Iljuwas (Bill Reid) grew to become a true inspiration to the next generation of Northwest Coast artists. Following in his footsteps, this group of carvers, jewellers, sculptors, and painters keep his legacy alive through their beautiful work.