Artists and Designers

Photo by: Nadya Kwandibens / Artist: Celeste Pedri-Spade

Gwich'in Nation / Canada

Willow Crescent Quilting

Discipline:

Craft / Textiles

Dorathy Wright is an Indigenous artist and designer from the Gwich’in nation, a group of First Nations people who live in the northwestern part of North America. She designs and sews clothes with influence from her nation and the Canadian north, using traditional materials and techniques as well as modern fabrics and styles. She started her business with quilting, making beautiful and cozy blankets that reflect her culture and environment. In the last couple of years, she has been focusing on designing her own clothes and teaching traditional clothing skills to communities in the territories. She has created a line of clothing that is both functional and fashionable, inspired by the wildlife, landscapes, and seasons of the north. She also offers workshops and classes on how to make clothing items such as parkas, moccasins, mittens, and hats using fur, leather, beads, and embroidery. She is passionate about preserving and promoting her heritage through her art and sharing her knowledge with others. She is a respected and talented artist who has exhibited her work in various galleries and festivals across Canada. She is also a proud mother of two children who support her in her endeavors. Dorathy Wright is an example of a successful and creative Indigenous woman who is making a positive impact on her community and beyond.