​

Are dreamcatchers Indigenous?

​

Yes. Dreamcatchers originated with Indigenous Peoples of North America, with the earliest known dreamcatchers traced to the Great Lakes region. Today, many Indigenous Nations have their own teachings, stories, and interpretations surrounding dreamcatchers, while others do not use them as part of their culture.

As a Nakota (Sioux-Assiniboine) artist, I share the teachings that have been passed down within my own community and family. It is important to recognize that there is no single "Indigenous" story or belief that represents every Nation.

​

What do dreamcatchers symbolize?

 

Dreamcatchers are symbols of hope, protection, guidance, and connection.

While their meaning varies among Indigenous Nations, they often represent the journey through life, our relationships, and the dreams, goals, and intentions we carry. Every element—from the circle and web to the feathers and beads—can hold personal significance.

 

What is the Nakota teaching of the dreamcatcher?

 

In the Nakota tradition, Ikotomi, the Spider, taught a spiritual elder about the circle of life while weaving a web within a willow hoop.

The web represents the interconnectedness of life and the choices we make. Positive dreams, hopes, and aspirations are held within the web so they can remain with us when we wake, while negative dreams pass through the centre and disappear with the morning light.

 

Are your dreamcatchers traditional?

 

No.

My work is contemporary Indigenous art inspired by the teachings and symbolism of the dreamcatcher. While I honour the cultural significance of the dreamcatcher, I intentionally use modern materials and artistic techniques to create original works that reflect personal stories and contemporary Indigenous expression.

 

Are your dreamcatchers made by hand?

 

Yes.

Every piece is individually handcrafted by me in Calgary, Alberta. From wrapping each ring to weaving every web and selecting each material, every dreamcatcher is created one at a time with care and intention.

No two pieces are ever exactly alike.

 

Can I request a custom dreamcatcher?

 

Absolutely.

Many of my custom pieces begin with a conversation.

Rather than simply choosing colours, I enjoy learning about the person, their story, what the piece represents, and the meaning they hope it will carry. Together we create something that reflects those intentions through colour, materials, gemstones, symbolism, and design.

 

How do you design custom dreamcatchers?

 

Every custom piece begins with listening.

I don't begin with a finished design. Instead, I spend time learning about the person, their story, and what inspired them to commission the piece. I then allow the creative process to unfold naturally, choosing materials and design elements that best reflect the conversation and meaning behind the work.

 

Are dreamcatchers only for bedrooms?

 

Not at all.

While dreamcatchers have traditionally been associated with sleep, many people display them throughout their homes as reminders of their goals, loved ones, cultural connection, or important life moments.

Many of my larger installations and custom commissions are created as meaningful works of art rather than objects intended only for bedrooms.

 

Do the gemstones have meanings?

 

Many people enjoy incorporating gemstones because of their traditional metaphysical associations.

While I share commonly accepted symbolic meanings for each stone, these beliefs are personal and vary between cultures and individuals. I encourage people to choose gemstones that resonate most with their own intentions and experiences.

 

Can I choose specific colours?

 

Yes.

Colour is often one of the most personal aspects of a custom piece. Some people choose colours that remind them of loved ones, significant places, ceremonies, favourite landscapes, or simply colours they feel connected to.

 

Why are feathers used?

 

Feathers have long held important cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous Peoples.

In my contemporary artwork, feathers often symbolize freedom, guidance, strength, connection, and honour. Different feather styles and colours may be chosen to reflect the story or intention behind each piece.

 

What materials do you use?

 

I use a variety of contemporary materials including:

• Metal rings

• Cotton cord

• Satin ribbon

• Leather (upon request)

• Faux sinew

• Glass beads

• Natural gemstones

• Wood

• Feathers

• Mixed media elements

Every material is carefully selected to complement the story behind the piece.

 

Are all dreamcatchers supposed to look the same?

 

No.

There is no single "correct" design.

Across Indigenous Nations, dreamcatchers have been made using different materials, styles, and teachings. Contemporary Indigenous artists continue to explore new forms while respecting the cultural significance of the dreamcatcher.

 

Do you teach dreamcatcher workshops?

 

Yes.

I facilitate workshops for schools, corporations, community organizations, conferences, museums, and cultural events.

My workshops combine hands-on creativity with Indigenous education, encouraging participants to learn about the cultural significance of dreamcatchers while creating a meaningful piece of their own.

 

Why do you create dreamcatchers?

 

Dreamcatchers have been part of my healing journey.

What began as a way to find peace after the loss of my father has grown into a lifelong practice of storytelling, cultural education, and artistic expression. Today, every piece I create is rooted in connection—to people, culture, memory, and the stories we carry with us.