artist statement
These gauntlet mitts feature intricate floral beadwork crafted from glass seed beads, crystals, gemstones, and 24k gold seed beads on a black wool base. Trimmed with rich lehéts̓ (otter) fur, the mitts combine warmth and luxury.
The Reigning Buds gown exudes majesty, with cascading flowers intricately beaded from pearls, crystals, gemstones, sterling silver, and caribou hair tufting, honoring Indigenous artistry and symbolizing “raining buds.” The sleek navy silhouette with a V-neckline is paired with draped Yukon silver fox fur, blending natural beauty with regal elegance.
This handcrafted melámen (medicine) bag features intricate floral beadwork on black velvet, made with freshwater pearls, antique seed beads, gemstones, shells, sterling silver beads, and caribou hair tufting. The smoked, traditionally tanned elk hide body includes twisted fringe, with antique glass trade beads on the drawstrings. Designed for collecting melámen from the land, it honors their power by holding them beautifully and safely.
artist biography
Randi Nelson is a Secwépemc artist and fashion designer, and a member of St’uxwtews First Nation. Now based in Whitehorse, Yukon, she is celebrated for her distinct artistic style, a product of her upbringing in a family that stressed the importance of harnessing creativity from the natural world.
The jewelry and other wearable art designs that Randi creates are inspired by her love of nature and its beauty. She draws inspiration from the changing seasons, handpicking flowers, berries, and leaves to create unique floral patterns for each piece. The colours of the plants and their shades inform the selection of beads, gemstones, and hand-dyed caribou hair for her jewellery and other wearable art pieces ensuring a perfect match.
In addition to her personal artistic endeavors, Randi is dedicated to teaching others and sharing her artistic and cultural knowledge. Her work has been recognized and is included in the Yukon Permanent Art Collection and owned by art collectors worldwide.
