Skye Paul

Toronto , ON

Beadwork, Leatherwork, Quillwork, and Illustration

My artistic practice expresses a new generational perspective that respectfully sustains traditional skills and knowledge. My primary medium is beadwork and illustration, which has led to caribou hair tufting, quillwork, leatherwork and installation. My teachers and training come from family and community through traditionally oral and hands-on ways of life. I am part of a young generation that mobilizes Indigenous art and culture through urban subcultures like tattooing and pop. When I bead tattoo flash-inspired designs with Dene florals, I see my Setsuné’s (grandmother’s) hands at work. It is that poetic sense of identity that allows me to continue to grow and explore the cultural intersection of work in my globalized, urban setting. My work connects beyond conventional artistic boundaries. I share my vision with audiences through digital, community, and fashion platforms in an accessible and relatable way. Accessibility to younger generations is an important attribute I seek in my work.