Current Makers
Salina Fosbery
I am of Cree and Kahnawake descent, but I was raised by the Syilx communities of the Okanagan Valley.
Beading started as a hobby for me. I enjoy making colourful and intricate patterns and I find that beading calms me. I often think about how the art form started and the materials and tools that were used back then while I work.
My eye for tight patterns and clean lines is partially due to my years as a welder and fabricator, which I put aside to become a full time stay at home mom to my four children who range in age from newborn to teens. When my husband and I find spare time we often sew, puzzle or go offroading with our friends.
Shauna Goffic
Shauna Goffic is Syilx and a member of Westbank First Nation. Raised in the Okanagan, she spent her early years on Vancouver Island before joyfully returning home in 2024. She now lives in Vernon along the shores of Okanagan Lake, where creativity has become a meaningful part of her daily life.
Shauna began beading in the spring of 2025 and quickly fell in love with the process. Largely self-taught, she is drawn to the precision of beadwork—tight rows, flowing fringe, and the deep sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something beautiful by hand. Inspired by her sister’s creativity and her love for First Nations–inspired art, Shauna brings care and intention to every piece she works on.
Working with Woolly Bear has been especially meaningful for Shauna. She enjoys collaborating with Eden, learning new techniques, and bringing Woolly Bear designs to life. When she’s not beading, she’s likely spending time with her constant companion, Kassie (aka Sassy Kass), her beloved 15-year-old Shih Tzu.
Nikkita Wilson
Nikita Wilson is a Syilx woman from Westbank First Nation. After growing up in Calgary, she returned home as a teenager and began reconnecting with her culture through beadwork. Largely self-taught, Nikita learned by following and studying bead artists online, letting curiosity and creativity guide her process.
She loves how beadwork allows for self-expression through colour and pattern, and draws constant inspiration from her family—especially her sisters, who were her very first (and most enthusiastic) supporters. Working with Woolly Bear has been a meaningful learning experience for Nikita, and she’s grateful to be part of a woman-led, community-rooted brand that celebrates slow, intentional art.
Past & Collaborating Makers
Hailey Eli
way̓ x̌ast sx̌əlx̌ʕalt, iskʷist staʔqʷálqs. kn tl̓ staʔqatqʷəłniwt. kmusməs isqʷsqʷaʔsia. isx̌ilwiʔ Cody Eli. Hello good day, my name is staʔqʷálqs or Hailey Eli. I am from Westbank, I have four sons and my husband is Cody Eli.
I am currently working on a dual masters in Archival and Library studies with informational studies. I work an assortment of contracts to allow flexibility for my children and school. I have been beading for 20 years and also enjoy quilling and sewing.
