Nic Joseph, a talented artisan from Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick, has been living on Prince Edward Island since 2020. She began beading at a young age, taught by her mother, a skilled beader, alongside her sister when they were just 10 and 11 years old. After stepping away from the craft for a while, Nic reignited her passion for beading while working with Indigenous PEI, inspired by the vibrant community of makers, especially after the 2023 Christmas Artisan Market.

Nic’s business, Lentuk Beads, carries a special significance. “Lentuk” means “Deer” in Mi’kmaq, and the name honors a childhood memory. When she was younger, her great uncle Joe performed a naming ceremony for Nic and her sister, where one of the names was “Dancing Fawn.” Though they don’t recall who the name was intended for, Nic chose to incorporate the spirit of that moment and her great uncle’s memory into her business after his passing.

Drawing inspiration from her mother, who found peace and self-expression through beading, Nic Joseph creates unique keepsake pieces for family and friends. She primarily works with seed beads, favoring the technique of making fringe earrings over other styles like medallion earrings. While she already incorporates cultural elements into her pieces, Nic is focused on further deepening the cultural significance of her work.

For Nic, the most rewarding aspect of being an artisan is sharing the story behind each piece and educating others about the craft of beadwork. Looking ahead, she is excited about expanding her collection, with plans to create innovative products that haven’t been explored before. Through Lentuk Beads, Nic Joseph continues to honor her heritage, her family, and her creative journey.