Joanne Charette, Ojibway Regalia Designer, Manitoulin Island (Canada)

My name is Joanne Charette and I am a Native (Ojibway) from Wikwemikoong First Nation on Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario. I grew up on the Pow Wow trail and began making my own native regalia, when I was 14 years old. I was inspired and motived by my aunt Violet McGregor.

My biggest human influencers were my high school art teacher and my family of seamstress. My major interest is currently in fiber and bead mediums. I relish all types of clothing styles, how it is made and the colours that are used to create dimension, contrast and harmony together.



I love to create wearable art; it is very methodical and stress reliving. I take joy in helping others create their vision. I pride myself on superior hand crafted, one of kind works using multi-textiles (embroidery, appliqué, leather and beads).

I firmly believe that “we are what we wear”. It is important in this day to create a positive and confident presence. We can achieve this through wearing clothing that reflect our individuality and traditions.

The National Art Gallery in Ottawa, ON, commissioned 6 pieces for their children’s program.