Birch Bark Biting 'Bloom"

Hand crafted birch bark biting 

The birch tree has many uses in First Nations culture.  From canoes to baskets to tea, the tree is one of life's forgotten treasures.  Historically, writings and drawings were carved into thin layers much like you would draw in a  book.  However, the pen of choice were ones teeth.   The intricate designs were used as ornament for baskets, and templates for painted designs and later  beadwork.  Much of the work later became more popular as an art piece.  The biting within the piece created by a Rocky Cree First Nations woman Kari Lentowicz from Treaty 6 Territory.  She is a proud Indigenous woman from the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation.