Native Creations Artist Co-op

Randa Martin had a vision, as many artists do. But this vision included many, many artists. And all of the artists are from Akwesasne. To make this vision a reality she has worked countless hours, all voluntarily, to create and sustain an artist co-op in Akwesasne. This co-op is called Native Creations and is located at the Kainekehake Plaza under Rez Ink and next to Mohawk Vision. Once you walk into this shop your senses are filled with vibrant color, rich texture, beautiful aroma and soothing sounds. The shop’s items include works from 55 local Akwesasne artists. When the Co-op packs up and travels to Craft Fairs they can show items from at least 15 artists with a variety of items ranging from paintings, prints, handmade candles, beadwork, corn husk dolls, handmade jewelry to rattles and drums. Ms. Martin mentioned that artists are most welcome to sell their handmade rattles and drums at Native Creations. They are always selling out quickly. The shop is run entirely on volunteers and an artist is not required to donate any time “working” at the Co-op shop to present their artwork. Artists do have to donate 20% of their commission of any sold pieces of artwork to the Co-op Shop. This helps to cover the cost of electricity, heat and other maintenance of the shop.

Like most co-ops, what you find inside showcasing artwork has been donated by other local businesses. Swamp’s Performance donated a beautiful glass display case, Joe Barnes donated much-needed shelves and the Seniors of Akwesasne donated tables.

You can also find fine art work on mugs, lanyards, mouse pads and towels all designed by Fil Tahey. Fil only represents 1 of 55 artists showing their artwork. And you can also find beadwork by Sherrill Tahey, exquisite handmade jewelry and fine art prints by Joni White, native inspired paintings by Joe Barnes, sweet grass baskets, paintings by Kitt Thomas and Tammy King and traditional clothing made by Marla Thomas, beautiful and functional cradleboards by Scott Martin and CD’s by various singers including Mohawk Choir, Bear Fox, and Arcane Belief. Soon they will have well know and successful artist John Thomas and Mark Light’s artwork on display for sale.

Randa Martin is ecstatic about moving into a larger space and they soon plan on holding art classes for all ages upstairs. With the larger space they now have a changing room to try on clothes. And once here, you may run into the smiling face of a toddler or young child as the moms working here bring their children while donating their time at the Co-op. Ms. Martin said they could not have made it this far without the help of the generous artists and supporters in Akwesasne.