Indigenous Artist Tasha Seeseequasis fosters creative haven with Stardust Clothing in Midtown Plaza

cation was near the food court, which provided ample space to exhibit the work of over 60 local Indigenous artisans—a number that continues to grow each month. However, when renovations were planned for that area, Seeseequasis was given the chance to relocate her store closer to the mall’s main entrance.

Stardust boasts a diverse array of Indigenous artistry, featuring beadwork, gemstones, jewelry, clothing, and housewares. Seeseequasis is confident that patrons will discover unique and stunning pieces within the store. In fact, her cousin once likened the store to an art gallery—a remark that deeply resonated with Seeseequasis.

The transformation of the Midtown Plaza location fills Seeseequasis with pride. “We had to do a lot of painting and added a lot of greenery too,” she shared. “We made it a more alternative space, trying to market towards a different market. I want to reach out to the alternative Indigenous folk because sometimes we feel like we don’t have a space for them. And this is what’s a space that I want to dedicate. To us out there because it’s hard to find a space where we feel accepted.”

Despite the challenges she faced growing up on a reserve with limit- ed resources for artists, Tasha Seeseequasis has turned her passion for creativity into a thriving business. Stardust Clothing and Accessories not only showcases her tie-dye masterpieces but also serves as a platform for Indigenous artisans to share their work with a broader audience. By embracing her heritage and providing a space for other Indigenous artists, Seeseequasis is helping to build a sense of community and acceptance in the alternative Indigenous art scene. The success of Stardust Clothing and Accessories serves as a testament to her resilience, vision, and dedication to supporting local talent.

By: Jordan LaPlante

Local First Nations students are coming together at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) with a shared goal of gaining handson training and building successful, rewarding careers in the construction industry. Embracing the learning curve, these students are motivated to acquire the skills needed for a workforce that offers various opportunities in skilled trades. SIIT provides certificate and diploma programs, as well as quick skills programs, at campus and community locations. Programs currently open for applications include Construction Worker Preparation and Dry Wall and Steel Studs. The training combines in-class theory and practical applications, life skills training, career planning, and safety tickets. SIIT also supplies personal protective equipment needed for shop training and employment. The institute covers work-related safety tickets, which vary according to each trade. For those interested in working as lathers installing steel stud framing and drywalling in the construction industry, SIIT’s Steel Stud and Drywall program might be an ideal first step. The six-week program is delivered in Battleford, SK, at the Ridge. Drywall installers and finishers work with drywall sheets and various types of ceiling systems, while lathers install support frameworks for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls, and building partitions. Graduates of the program can find entry-level work as drywall installers or lathers with construction companies, plastering, drywalling, and lathing constructors, or become self-employed.

With years of experience ahead, these students are eager to learn from the teamwork and resources provided by SIIT. The institute offers a solid foundation for construction careers, which often follow an apprenticeship learning model, opening doors to a wide range of careers, freedom to travel, and opportunities for career growth.

Written By : Jody Wolverine

Cheyenna Sapp, a member of Little Pine First Nation, SK who now resides in Saskatoon, was inspired to pursue stand-up comedy after seeing three Indigenous comics - Dani Albert, Shawn Cuthand, and Danny Knight - perform at an event at the University of Saskatchewan. She then connected with Stephanie Pangowish, Paul Rabliauskis, and Dakota Ray Hebert, who became her mentors and friends.

As a woman of Indigenous heritage, Cheyenna is grateful to have a platform where she can share her perspective in a humorous way. “Indigenous women have historically had their voices silenced in many areas,” she notes, “so being able to use comedy to express myself is incredibly empowering.”

Cheyenna draws on her experiences as an Indigenous woman, mother, and aunt, as well as her background growing up on the rez and her knowledge gained from her Indigenous Studies major. She believes that laughter has the power to heal and is committed to using her comedic talent to bring joy to others.

Indigenous