Getting ‘hooked’!
Karen Lediard showcases Métis-style rug hooking at international conference
This fall, Métis citizen and talented artist Karen Lediard was honoured to attend the International Guild of Hand Hooked Rugs (TIGHR) Conference as an instructor. Rug hookers and designers from across the world gathered in Niagara-on-the-Lake to showcase their work and expand their expertise in rug hooking styles and techniques. Karen’s workshop focused on Métis-style traditional rug hooking, a unique form that many are unfamiliar with, despite its historical significance.
“This year’s conference fell on September 30, so a key part of my workshop was sharing the importance of Truth and Reconciliation so those visiting Canada would understand the importance and impact of this day,” says Karen. “We had 36 hooked rugs on display, I was never so humbled and proud of my Métis roots as when I saw those amazing mats hung, it brought tears to my eyes.”
Karen’s creativity was nurtured by her grandparents from an early age. Her grandfather encouraged her artistic talents by cutting up paper grocery bags for her to use as canvas for her drawings. Karen also witnessed her grandmother’s skills in knitting, sewing, quilting, embroidery and canning, describing them as “labours of love derived from necessity.”
Karen’s work reflects the spirit of Métis culture, inspired by her connection to Penetanguishene and the Georgian Bay area where she lives. She actively supports the arts community, often showcasing her creations and uplifting local talent. In 2010, Karen co-founded The Bay Studio Tour, which now highlights 25 local artists in Penetanguishene and Tiny Township and grows each year, welcoming new talent.
Karen’s journey into rug hooking began over twenty years ago when she discovered the book Métis Legacy, which introduced her to the Métis-style of the art form. Since then, she has dedicated herself to studying the craft and even earned a teaching certificate through Ontario Hooking Craft Guild to share her knowledge.
Through her small business, By the Bay Studio, Karen designs and crafts traditional hooked rugs, hand-painted folk art, knitting, and more. Inspired by her childhood experiences drawing on paper bags, she primarily uses recycled materials to honour Métis traditions and promote sustainability.
Karen is helping to keep traditional Métis art alive, telling our stories and inspiring new generations to become “hooked” on his little-known Métis art form.