Morningstar Designs

Alanah Astehtsi Otsistohkwa (Morningstar) Jewell (she/her) is a mixed French-First Nations artist. She is Bear Clan from Oneida Nation of the Thames, grew up off-reserve and currently lives in Kitchener, Ontario. Alanah is an illustrator, painter and muralist, and organizes local Indigenous Art Markets through @IAmKitchener on Instagram.

Alanah 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.

Outside of creating, Alanah is also a consultant for the City of Kitchener, where she works to Indigenize urban parks and open spaces, giving members of the Indigenous community the opportunity to gather through art and creativity. Her passion is promoting Indigenous art and culture in urban areas.

Photo by Heather Cox (@filledwithlightphotography on Instagram)