An online jewelry store has launched out of Metro Vancouver, selling works from a number of different Indigenous artists from across B.C.
First Nations Designs opened its digital doors at the beginning of February 2022, with the production of their pieces being done on Squamish reservation land in North Vancouver.
The store's founder, John Velten, is an Indigenous carver and sculptor who lives in Burnaby. He's had works commissioned by the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Mural Festival, and other clients.
Velten saw a very specific opportunity in jewelry production, according to a media release. He approached both emerging and established artists, some of who he says "never thought they could make precious metal jewelry, due to limited access to tools and technical understanding," and provided mentorship and support to help turn some of their ideas into real-life pieces that people can purchase.
Artists include Corey Moraes, Danika Saunders, Edwin Neel, Gerrenp, Grant Pauls, John Velten, Mark Preston, Michelle Stoney, Morgan Asoyuf, Ovila Mailhot, Shawn Aster, and Shawna Kiesman.
The store currently stocks over 100 products on their website, and they aim to release hundreds more in the coming months.
