Afro-Indigenous Beadwork Artist Creates One-Of-A-Kind Designs | Forbes

Celebrating connection and community, Mikailah Thompson's art bridges Afro and Indigenous communities.

Long a stalwart supporter of indigenous artists and cultures, Manitobah has collaborated with Mikailah Thompson, an afro-indigenous beadwork artist and entrepreneur, for the one-of-a-kind Wallowa Moccasin. Named after her tribe’s original homeland, Wallowa, or Wa’lâwa, inspiration for the modern geometric designs derives from traditional Nimîipuu beadwork and cornhusk pieces. “When I sit down and come up with a pattern, I start with what stands out to me most and add to it as I go along,” Thompson says.

Fashioning a strategy that lifts up and empowers indigenous communities, creating a positive impact, is no small feat. Thompson plays homage to her ancestors and her roots by bridging the gap between afro and indigenous communities through a celebration of community and culture.

“Before our treaties were broken and we were forced on to our reservation, we resided in what is now known as Oregon, Washington, and Idaho,” Thompson says. “Wa’lâwa has and continues to be an important place for our people and that was the message I wanted to amplify.”

Art becomes a bridge, connecting past, present, and future.

How we choose to spend our money and what we decide to wear can affect home-grown populations in meaningful ways. Manitobah, founded in Winnipeg in 1997, connects consumers with indigenous artists through not only well designed moccasins and mukluks, but also, through compelling and authentic storytelling.

“The buyer has the chance to gain an understanding of the inspiration of the shoe and, at the end of the day, understanding and acknowledgement is where change begins,” says Thompson. “Celebrating…

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