Lynette La Fontaine

Tribe: Nehiyow / Michif (Métis-Cree)
Based In: Prince George, BC
Email: otipemisiwakartist@gmail.com
Social Media: @otipemisiwak_artist

About the Artist
Lynette La Fontaine, otipemisiwak artist, creates traditional and contemporary Métis artwork in the form of beading and painting. Her work is inspired by connection to land, heart, spirit, ancestors and teachings from Elders and knowledge holders. Her beadwork is custom designed using traditional Métis practices and materials. No two pieces are alike. The Métis are known historically as “The Flower Beadwork People” as a result of the elaborately beaded, floral designs on garments and personal items. Lynette’s work honours this identifiable way of beading in all her unique designs.

Lynette was raised in Fraser Lake. Her Métis roots are in Northern Saskatchewan and the Red River Valley. She has been creating art all her life. Lynette is a self-taught, traditional and contemporary artist. She taught herself to bead while attending university and working with the Elders, in 2007. Since this time, she has been gathering teachings and knowledge from various community members and Elders. In 2016, Lynette received funding from the First Peoples’ Cultural Council as an emerging artist. Her mentor is Lisa Shepherd, well known Métis artisan. Lynette’s work has increased to a more professional level in order to do commissioned work, start a business, and share her skills and knowledge to teach others.

(via manitobah.com)