About the artist

My name is Alli Matchett. I am Secwépemc (Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation), Scottish, and English, and I grew up on Sinixt territory in the West Kootenays. After living away from the area for many years, I have returned to this beautiful place that I love the most.

I began beading 18 years ago, and it changed everything for me creatively. I am primarily self-taught, learning through hands-on practice, books, youtube, and the shared knowledge of loved ones. I have always loved art and have always felt like an artist, but I didn’t feel truly confident working in any other medium until I found beadwork. Beading is my medicine and my therapy, bringing me calm, focus, and healing.

I am especially drawn to beading flowers and other elements of nature. Each piece is made slowly and intentionally, drawing inspiration from the world around me, letting flowers, forests, and the changing seasons guide me.

I bead from my home in the West Kootenays, where I live with my husband, our baby boy, our dog, and our cat. My days are shaped by family, home, nature, and a cozy way of making, and I hope that warmth and care can be felt in every piece I create.