MORNINGSTAR DESIGNS

Alanah Astehtsi̲' Otsistóhkwaˀ (Morningstar) Jewell (she/her) is a contemporary Indigenous artist. She is Bear Clan from Oneida Nation of the Thames, grew up off-reserve and currently lives in Kitchener, Ontario. Morningstar is an illustrator, painter and muralist, and organizes local Indigenous Art Markets through I Am Kitchener. She also co-founded Kalihwiyo Market, a pop-up store that featured the works of over 35 Indigenous artisans.

Morningstar received an Honours BA in Sociology from Wilfrid Laurier University, and had dreams of attending law school or pursuing a Masters degree in the years following graduation. However, life took a turn when she decided to pursue art as a hobby in 2019; she quickly developed a love for creating and felt that she could pursue art part-time. Illustrating and painting soon became her life work, and through this she has been able to connect with other Indigenous creators, participate in community, and express culture, love and connection through her art.

Morningstar finds inspiration in the small moments that make us human. Her art reflects experiences, moments, feelings, dreams and beliefs that inspire her.