MORNINGSTAR DESIGNS

Alanah Astehtsi̲' Otsistóhkwaˀ (Morningstar) Jewell (she/her) is a passionate, proud and self-taught Indigenous artist. She is Bear Clan from Oneida Nation of the Thames, grew up off-reserve and currently lives in Kitchener, Ontario. She specializes in digital illustration, acrylic and oil paintings and murals, but also loves practicing beadwork, stained glass and 2D sculpture. She finds inspiration in the natural world, in cultural teachings and ways of being, and in the small moments that make us human.

Outside of creating, she organizes local Indigenous Art Markets through I Am Kitchener, and co-founded Kalihwiyo Market, a pop-up store that featured the works of over 35 Indigenous artisans. At the heart of her work is her passion to support, inspire and provide opportunity to other Indigenous artists.

Morningstar has been a full-time practicing artist for over 5 years: in that time, she has collaborated with global organizations and brands, including Facebook, Instagram, Google, Aritzia, Roots and Disney. Many of her collaborations have involved uplifting Indigenous people during Native American Heritage Month (US) and Indigenous Peoples History Month (CA), as well as International Women's Day, MMIW Awareness Day and Orange Shirt Day. Much of her work has been centred on advocacy and activism; through this, she has proudly represented Indigenous people through her art.

HISTORY

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 re-ignite her love for art in 2019; she quickly developed a new love for creating and pushed to pursue art part-time. Illustrating and painting soon became her true passion, and when the pandemic hit, she had no choice but to support herself through her work. On her journey, she has been able to connect with other Indigenous creators, participate in community, and express culture, love and connection through her art.