Indigenous Designer Sage Paul on Finding Authentic First Nation Experiences in Canada
Date: 1 September 2021
Introduction to Sage Paul
A Denesuliné and a member of the English River First Nation, Sage Paul has been a pioneering force in Indigenous Canadian fashion. She launched Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto, a biennial event, in 2018. As a fashion designer, artist, and TV and film costumer, she has significantly impacted the representation of Indigenous artists in mainstream media, with features in notable publications such as Vogue and WWD.
Exploring Indigenous Experiences
For people coming to Canada looking for authentic Indigenous stories, where should they start?
Respect is fundamental when seeking Indigenous experiences. It’s crucial to understand that many narrators are family members or friends sharing their cultures. Numerous opportunities exist, such as attending powwows, which occur throughout summer and are open to the public. Powwows offer a vibrant showcase of authentic literature, crafts, jewelry, clothing, and Indigenous cuisine, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Indigenous culture.
Additionally, Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto is an excellent venue to explore Indigenous creativity and cultural representation.
Current Indigenous Cultural Landscape
What excites you about Canada’s Indigenous scene today?
Young Indigenous individuals are actively expressing themselves and working to preserve their culture. This creativity is evident in events like Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto and initiatives such as the Indigenous-led aabaakwad conference at the Art Gallery of Ontario. These platforms foster indigenous creativity and provide authentic representations of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Dining and Shopping Recommendations
Where should visitors eat and shop while in Toronto?
Though Kūkŭm Kitchen is no longer open, Chef Joseph Shawana continues to inspire with high-quality Indigenous cuisine. For a delightful meal, stop by Tea-N-Bannock in the East End for local specialties, including their famous strawberry drinks and corn soup.
For shopping, exploring Kensington Market is a must. You can find second-hand treasures at Courage My Love and local Indigenous-made jewelry and crafts at Pacha Arts.
Travel Destinations in Canada
If you could visit any place in Canada, where would it be?
Whitehorse stands out for its vibrant art scene and nearly continuous daylight during summer. The grassroots efforts of Indigenous women in urban hide tanning contribute to the area’s cultural richness.
Misperceptions of Canada
What do people often misunderstand about Canada?
Canada is often stereotyped with images of igloos and simplistic ‘ehs.’ However, the country boasts immense diversity and depth. The food scene in cities like Toronto reflects the culinary styles from around the globe, making it a unique gastronomic destination.
Connect with Sage Paul
To follow Sage Paul’s journey and engagement with Indigenous culture, check out her Instagram profile at @sagepaul.
