Michaela Brown

Boozhoo! My name is Michaela Brown. I am a proud member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, with ancestral roots tracing back to Canada and Mackinac Island. Born and raised in the St. Ignace area, I still call this beautiful land home.

Creativity has always been a part of who I am. I began by sketching and painting for myself and my family, and my artistic journey has continued to grow ever since. My mother taught me to sew at a young age, and what began as a practical skill became a lifelong passion. I sewed clothing for my children out of necessity, then expanded to creating garments for others. Today, I design and sew ribbon skirts, shirts, and dresses that reflect my heritage and love for traditional style.

I’m a self-taught beader, learning through a lot of trial and error—and love every moment of it. All of my beadwork is original, and I craft a variety of pieces, including necklaces, earrings, hat bands, and barrettes. Inspired by other artists, I also create mandalas, often incorporating natural materials like hides, feathers, shells, quills, and beads in colors that reflect the natural world around me.

Much of my work is created during the long winter months. In the spring and summer, I plant vegetables and flowers, and I forage and harvest materials to use in my projects. Every piece I make is rooted in connection—to land, tradition, and creativity.

Through every piece I honor my heritage, the seasons, and the connection between nature and art. Miigwech!