Haley Bassett’s recent solo exhibition explored the multifaceted nature of Métis labour past and present and traced “how our history is reflected in our current roles within the Canadian economy.”
Bassett blends mediums, including beadwork and textiles, crafting sculptures and installations that explore themes of identity, culture, land, heritage, history, labour, and place. These images are from her exhibition We Work With Our Hands at Galerie Nicolas Robert.
Haley Bassett is of Métis and settler descent, born in Dawson Creek, BC. She lives and works between Grande Prairie, Alberta, and Sunset Prairie, BC, in Treaty 8, the traditional territory of the Dene, Dene-zaa, Nēhiyawēwak, and the Homeland of the Métis. Below, from Instagram, images of her exhibition work.
A graduate of Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Bassett has been a finalist for the William and Meredith Saunderson Prize and the 2025 Salt Spring National Art Prize. Her works are held in collections of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, RBC and the Canada Council for the Arts. She has recently exhibited at the Contemporary Native Art Biennial, Musée des beaux-arts de Sherbrooke and the Art Gallery of Grande Prairie.
Haley Bassett’s website, here.
At Galerie Nicolas Robert, here.
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Really beautiful to see this beaded artwork.
Yes, beadwork is such an integral part of the history, culture and artistic traditions of so many indigenous artists. I’m with you . . . it’s always so very beautiful.