April Allen, a contemporary Inuk artist and designer from the picturesque town of Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, on Labrador’s North Coast, is the creative force behind “Stitched by April.” With a deep reverence for her Inuit heritage, April intricately weaves traditional materials and history into each of her designs. Her passion for craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous attention she devotes to every stitch and bead, finding solace and fulfillment in her creative process.
Inspired by her mother’s dedication to sewing during her upbringing, April developed a profound appreciation for her culture’s traditional crafts. Her artistic journey is deeply intertwined with the art of beading and sewing, reflecting her strong connection to her heritage.
In 2022, April gained recognition in the Indigenous artistic community, participating in prestigious events such as the Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival, Inuit Studies Conference, Adaka Cultural Festival, Arctic Arts Summit, and the Crafted Show and Sale hosted by the Winnipeg Qaumanaq Art Gallery. Beyond showcasing her creations, she shares her knowledge and skills with others at these gatherings.
April proudly presented her work at the Labrador Winter Games in spring 2023, solidifying her status as a prominent Indigenous artist. Her collection of Inuit Dolls now resides permanently at The Rooms, Provincial Art Bank in St. John’s, NL. Recently, April has showcased her designs at the Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, events that have filled her with immense pride. Most recently she returned from Paris, and Milan, featuring her designs on these prestigious runways.
Recognized with the Milestone Award at the 18th annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards presented by Vanl-Carfac, April is driven by an unwavering desire for innovation. She continually explores new designs, integrating them into her teachings, particularly with Indigenous youth across Northern Canada, whom she instructs virtually from grades K-12. April believes that by sharing her craft and connecting through artistic expression, she can inspire and promote healing among the younger generation.
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Vendor Biography
April Allen, a contemporary Inuk artist and designer from the picturesque town of Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, on Labrador’s North Coast, is the creative force behind “Stitched by April.” With a deep reverence for her Inuit heritage, April intricately weaves traditional materials and history into each of her designs. Her passion for craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous attention she devotes to every stitch and bead, finding solace and fulfillment in her creative process.
Inspired by her mother’s dedication to sewing during her upbringing, April developed a profound appreciation for her culture’s traditional crafts. Her artistic journey is deeply intertwined with the art of beading and sewing, reflecting her strong connection to her heritage.
In 2022, April gained recognition in the Indigenous artistic community, participating in prestigious events such as the Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival, Inuit Studies Conference, Adaka Cultural Festival, Arctic Arts Summit, and the Crafted Show and Sale hosted by the Winnipeg Qaumanaq Art Gallery. Beyond showcasing her creations, she shares her knowledge and skills with others at these gatherings.
April proudly presented her work at the Labrador Winter Games in spring 2023, solidifying her status as a prominent Indigenous artist. Her collection of Inuit Dolls now resides permanently at The Rooms, Provincial Art Bank in St. John’s, NL. Recently, April has showcased her designs at the Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week, events that have filled her with immense pride. Most recently she returned from Paris, and Milan, featuring her designs on these prestigious runways.
Recognized with the Milestone Award at the 18th annual Excellence in Visual Arts Awards presented by Vanl-Carfac, April is driven by an unwavering desire for innovation. She continually explores new designs, integrating them into her teachings, particularly with Indigenous youth across Northern Canada, whom she instructs virtually from grades K-12. April believes that by sharing her craft and connecting through artistic expression, she can inspire and promote healing among the younger generation.