Nish's Genuine Creations

Joanne Charette of Nish’s Creations is an Ojibway from Manitoulin Island, of the Wikwemikoong Reserve, currently living in Wasaga Beach.

Joanne learned much of her craft when she was 14 years old, living with an Auntie who toured the Pow Wow trail. This auntie taught her how to make her own outfits; her mother taught her to sew, and creating has always been a family affair.

Focusing mostly on the fibre arts, Joanne creates items for outfits and also shirts, bags and dolls. She loves connecting with her clients, and when she has the chance to chat with them about their families, colours or spirit guides emerge for Joanne to create a connection between client and item.

Crafting for Joanne, as she gets older, has become a relaxing and reconnecting experience as she sits with her community Pow Wows or unwinds at the end of the day. She also sells her products at the Toronto Friendship Centre’s annual art festival.