Genuine Native Arts

Byron Conant is a Cree artist, crafter and carver from James Smith First Nation in Saskatchewan, and has been living in Ottawa for the past 20 years.

Byron makes dreamcatchers, drums, lanyards, keychains, wood carvings and knives. He carves using antler and wood, and makes knives from antler, bone, moose hide, and metal blades.

Byron learned to carve from Haida totem pole carver Don McLeay, who worked with renowned Indigenous artist Norval Morrisseau. Byron also shares his knowledge and works with youth groups teaching drum making, as well as giving dreamcatcher and lanyard workshops.

Byron is inspired by his Indigenous culture. He often dreams about ideas for his works of art and creates custom orders for his clients. He enjoys the peace of his work and loves turning a piece of material into a work of art.