Message from the Artist
Taanishi Jessica Major dishinikaashoon. I am a proud Métis and creator of Memento Michif.
I was born in Victoria, BC and raised in Kelowna. I moved to Vancouver to follow my passion and career as an embalmer and reconstruction specialist. I travelled all over the world to learn new techniques and increase my skill level to better serve grieving families. Over the years I have been honored to help many people say goodbye to their loved ones with one final peaceful moment.
My life's journey shifted from full career focus to understanding and learning who I was and where my family came from in 2021. The deeper I delved the more pride I felt. Being able to trace my family back to the Red River Settlement and reading about the incredible moments in history that they were a part of ignited a flame in me the I didn't know was there.
I originally began doing beadwork to feel a closer connection to my people and the passion and love for it just kept growing. Through my beadwork I feel I can honor my ancestors and keep their memories alive.
In a way my passion as an embalmer and my passion with my beadwork intertwines because both help us remember those who aren't with us anymore. This is how the name Memento Michif was created.
When I'm not at work or beading at home I am spending my days on adventures with my best friends, my partner S^yowah and our sweet pug Eddie.
I hope you enjoy my beadwork and can feel the love and good intentions worked into each and every piece.
Maarsii!