Elissa Brown

Elissa Brown is a Métis artist who uses traditional skills to express her art and share her teachings with community. Strengthening her connection to the land, she works with hides, fish skin, quills, tufting and beadwork. She has been part of many community art exhibitions, including MAAMAWI: A community collaboration and the Mann Art Gallery Winter Festival, and was awarded the 2024 Dana Wareing Popescule Memorial Award for her piece “Listening to the Spirits.” She has done many youth projects, in schools, and supports the growth and education of the community through workshops and facilitation. She is honoured to have shared her passions with so many through her collaboration and partnerships with Wanuskewin, Crafting Kinship, White Buffalo Youth Lodge, Saskatoon Survivors Circle, schools, communities and being the “Honourary Auntie” for 7th Fire Singers.

Elissa is a proud member of the Métis nation of Saskatchewan and does much of her work in and around Saskatoon. Much of her work is to carry forward teachings and traditional practices, especially for youth. She is a mother, hide maker, teacher, artist and support for many in her life. She loves helping her community, creating safe spaces, connecting with nature and being out on the land. Elissa will be showcasing her art at Wanuskewin Heritage Park through the Olivia & Greg Yuel Artist-in-Residence Program during the Summer of 2026.

“For me hide tanning is JOY. It is a healing and transformative practice that deepens my connection to my spirit, my ancestors and the land. Hides are one of my greatest teachers.”

Elissa will be in the Artist-in-Residence Studio June 1st – 26th.