Métis Artist Reimagines Traditional Dog Blankets

Carly Nabess, a Métis artist from Terrace, B.C., is redefining the traditional dog blanket, or tuppie. Her journey began after a challenging experience on Cormorant Lake, which sparked profound questions about her Métis identity. This led her to create nearly a dozen tuppies, pieces that honor tradition while embracing innovation.

Tuppies, historically adornments for sled dogs rather than utilitarian blankets, are being reinterpreted by Nabess. She collaborated with Cynthia Boehm, a Cree-Métis artist, to study and develop her craft, even visiting the Manitoba Museum for inspiration. Nabess views her artistic process as a form of joy and resistance against ongoing colonialism.

The culmination of Nabess's work will be displayed at Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver during July. The exhibition will feature nine tuppies, divided into three styles: traditional Métis, Nabess's beadwork interpretation, and avant-garde designs. These pieces aim to bridge historical artistry with contemporary expression, honoring the guidance of mentors and ancestors.

Nabess emphasizes that her art is a collaborative effort, co-created with the guidance of her ancestors, her mentor Cynthia Boehm, and other influential figures. This collaborative spirit is essential to her work, ensuring that Métis traditions are not only preserved but also brought vibrantly into the future.