Novalea MacKinnon is a proud member of Chippewa of Rama First Nation, born and raised in Prince Edward Island. A lifelong creator, she blends traditional Indigenous art forms with contemporary expression. From dream catchers and medicine wheels to beadwork, ribbon skirts, and moccasins, her pieces reflect culture, identity, and connection.

Beadwork has become her primary focus, and her creations — including medallions, orange shirt pins, poppy pins, earrings, and feather handles — have been shared, gifted, and displayed widely. Novalea has also taught community workshops and was honoured to bead eagle feather handles later presented to RCMP departments and courtrooms across PEI. Her art has even travelled internationally, with some pieces photographed at the Vatican.

For Novalea, crafting is more than art — it is healing, cultural grounding, and a lifelong passion passed down from childhood.