Minnow Iliʔi

Hi!
My name is Minnow Kiona Iliʔi and I'm a two-spirit indigenous artist from the Pacific Northwest. I'm a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and I do traditional as well as contemporary style beading. I have a background in western art and design, as well as several years of experience beading many different styles of indigenous beadwork.   

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I started Minnow & Crow to share indigenous beadwork and designs and be able to pursue my culture. Beading is an incredibly healing art form and has let me express myself in ways traditional western art practices didn't. Each piece that I make is one of a kind and handmade, and I follow traditional teachings when making my work. Each piece is made with positive intentions and smudged with sage and sweetgrass before I allow them to leave my home. All my work comes from a unique experience, being a mixed, two-spirit person with both western and indigenous influences. Beading has been a huge part of my reconnection journey, as I attempt to decolonize my way of being and thinking. It has brought me close to my ancestors and a lot of my work is directly inspired by my people. I want to share my beadwork to inspire other indigenous people who are beginning their own reconnection journey, as well as to share the beauty, strength and creativity of my culture to others. 

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hayu masi,

Many thanks 

To everyone who has supported me on my journey and to those closest to me. I wouldn't be where I am without you.