Thea Thomas

Threads of Identity: Crafting Culture through Contemporary Design

An illuminating exhibition that delves into the intricate interplay of identity, culture, and
tradition. Rooted in the artist’s connection to Haudenosaunee craft, this exhibition emerges as
a dynamic tribute to cultural resilience while seamlessly integrating it into the tapestry of
contemporary consciousness. In this body of work, each piece represents a nuanced
exploration of the artist’s contemplation on the fluidity of identity and the evolution of cultural
landscapes. Through a masterful fusion of techniques including garment construction, screen
printing, and the intricate artistry of Haudenosaunee raised beading, the artist weaves together
a visual symphony that resonates with reverence. The work encourages you to reexamine
established perceptions of culture and tradition. The artist’s skillful craftsmanship stands as a
testament to her commitment to reshaping the narrative, dismantling preconceived notions,
and carving out fresh pathways for new perspectives within Indigenous crafts. By skillfully
intertwining time-honoured practices with contemporary design sensibilities, this exhibition
imagines the possibilities of craft and culture in a rapidly evolving world. Through Threads of
Identity: Crafting Culture through Contemporary Design, we are invited to witness the
harmonious evolution of tradition into a bold expression of modern identity.

Thea, a Haudenosaunee Kanien’kehá:ka artist from Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory, shapes her artistic practice with an essence of craftsmanship. Navigating the intersections of time-honoured tradition and innovation, Thea is able to build a bridge between past and present. Based out of Treaty 7 Territory since 2018, she finds solace in the exploration of traditional Haudenosaunee craft as a means to remain rooted in her culture and community. Through design, Thea harmoniously merges the realms of traditional and non-traditional methods of creating that eloquently capture the convergence of Indigenous culture within the context of a modern world.