Phyllis Poitras-Jarrett
Phyllis Poitras-Jarrett
Métis
I am a Métis artist and presently working on a series of 22 mixed media acrylic paintings each 36”x40” in size. This series is highly textured and designed with my animal motifs and Métis beadwork art. My art symbolizes the connections that the Métis people have with animals, plants and nature.
The traditional knowledge and uses of plants and animals is slowly being revived and continues to sustain many Métis and Indigenous people to this day.
My Kokum's creativity and determination inspired my art. She lived in a two room house on Jackrabbit Road on the road allowance in Lebret, Saskatchewan. There she brought up 11 children with her husband Gregoire Poitras. During the winter months she lived with us, as her home lacked amenities. Lovingly we would string beads for her gorgeous necklaces. For our efforts she gave us a nickel per string, which would go full circle in an evening game of rummy. The sales of necklaces provided her with extra income for living expenses. The elders in my youth were positive role models and always encouraged my creative nature.
I am a self taught artist working in several different mediums.