Fine Art and Illustration from Vancouver Island on the West Coast of Canada Métis Artwork & Mandalas | Expressionist Canvas Landscapes Environmental Art | Children's Books & Illustrations
Kristi Bridgeman is a Metis artist working in the traditional lands of the Coast Salish People of the W̱SÁNEĆ and Lekwungen Nations. Her Metis ancestors are from Red River, Manitoba, St. Albert and Jasper, Alberta.
Kristi’s recent artistic focus is a merging of environmental, social and familial-ancestral Métis designs. The traditional patterns she incorporates in to her work were discovered in family photos, beaded and embroidered heirlooms, museum archives and from community elders. The experience of laying down patterns similar to those of our ancestors gives a sense of connection to them. The designs include life stages, balanced mirrored design, and images intended to emulate the traditional Metis flower beadwork. Her ancestors spoke Cree- Michif, and Chinook, so she purposefully incorporates Michif language in her work when possible.
Kristi’s work has been shortlisted for the Governor General's Award, several dozen Illustration and Fine Arts awards, and she was honoured as one of the Top 150 B.C. Women Artists by the Community Arts Council of Greater Victoria. Kristi is a member of the Métis Nation B.C., Metis Nation Greater Victoria, and the Federation of Canadian Artists.