Valerie Julian-Armstrong is a Mi’kmaw beadwork artist and designer based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Through Turtle Island Creations, she handcrafts intricate pieces that celebrate and share Mi’kmaw cultural identity. Valerie’s passion for beading began with the teachings of powwow dancers who showed her the skill, value, and joy of traditional artistry. Since then, she has created regalia for her daughters and completed cultural commissions for Mi’kmaw organizations across the province.
Valerie’s practice is grounded in both traditional and contemporary expression. Her work incorporates harvested and natural materials like quills, bone, antler, shell, birch bark, and hide, as well as culturally significant imagery including Mi’kmaw petroglyphs and hieroglyphics. Beadwork is more than craft for Valerie—it is a healing process, a way to honour her identity, and a creative form of cultural pride and resilience.
Her dedication and artistry were recognized in 2023 when she received a Nova Scotia Arts Materials Grant. Valerie continues to teach through example, helping others reconnect with culture through wearable art that reflects both tradition and individual spirit.
“Beading is medicine for the soul. It is healing and makes me proud to create cultural pieces that people want to wear.” – Valerie
Prayers and Ceremony | Cultural Knowledge and Practices – Other: Cooking-making luski and four cents
Cultural Education / Reconciliation Training / Consulting Services
Artist / Crafter | Designer
