First Nations Youth Jewelry Tool Initiative

Medicine Bear Arts – First Nations Youth Jewelry Initiative

At Medicine Bear Arts, we are proud to announce the launch of a new initiative dedicated to supporting the next generation of First Nations artists.

This is something I have wanted to do for many years.

I often share with people that it would have never been possible for me to enter the jewelry industry if I had not gone to school and received my first set of jewelry tools. When I speak with other jewelers, we all agree that this is a very expensive industry to break into. Many talented artists never get the opportunity simply because they do not have access to the tools.

Because of that, I am taking the first step.

I am going through my own tools—tools I once held onto with the idea of one day having an apprentice, and I am splitting them up to create a starter toolkit. This toolkit will be donated to a First Nations youth from the Maskwacis area who is currently pursuing the arts and has a strong interest in entering the jewelry industry.

Program Overview

We are inviting First Nations youth (age 32 and under) to apply.

Applicants must submit:

  • The artistic mediums you currently work in
  • Photos of your artwork
  • How long you have been creating art
  • Whether you have family members who are or were professional artists
  • Whether you currently have your work in any galleries or retail locations

Selection Process

We want to make this process fair and transparent.

Once applications are reviewed, the top three candidates will be selected. If multiple applicants meet the criteria, the final recipient will be chosen by drawing a name.

Future Vision – A 3 Stage Program

This is only the beginning.

The goal is to grow this into a three-stage jewelry development program:

  • Stage 1: Starter toolkit including silver, copper, and gems (current initiative)
  • Stage 2: Expanded tools and support (based on progress and commitment)
  • Stage 3: Advanced tools and potential production opportunities

If the selected artist continues working, developing their skills, and actively creating and selling their jewelry, they will be considered for the next stage.

My hope is that by starting this initiative, it will inspire jewelry manufacturers, tool suppliers, and other partners to get involved so we can sponsor more youth in the future.

Why This Matters

As it stands today, there are very few Cree jewelers actively producing and marketing their work.

We need more.

We need more artists, more voices, and more representation in this space.

It would be a great honour for me to help open that door for someone else, just like it was opened for me.

Application Timeline

  • Application Deadline: June 1
  • Recipient Announcement: June 15

Closing Words

This has been on my heart for a long time, and I am truly grateful to finally bring it to life.

I look forward to seeing your applications.

  All My Relations
Maskihkîy-Muskwa