Mullyanne Nîmito
Mullyanne Nîmito, 2022
Photo: Rachel Topham
Nîmito in nêhiyawêwin translates to she dances. This performance and video includes two objects: a hybrid moccasin platform shoe and the other a bepsi/beer tab shawl. Mullyanne Nîmito explores my Nehiyaw femme identity. Exploring ideas around Nehiyaw alien, protection, movement as healing, ancestral knowledge, traditional practice, Nehiyawewin, and Nehiyaw fashion.
The bepsi tab shawl is a sculptural garment made out of 3300 beer/ pop can tabs that myself and my community have been collecting for the past 5 years. I weaved the tabs and pastel ribbon together to create a long shawl with fringe similar to a fancy shawl. My ancestors used to create garments out of everything around them and this was something I come across sometimes daily. Both of these objects are an act of reclamation. My aunt taught me how to make traditional moccasins and that shared knowledge I hold close to my heart. Nanaskomitin Auntie Christine. I am thankful to all the aunties, Kokums, and ancestors who have guided me. This performance takes place in Wabasca. It's an honour to be on my homelands and be able to perform in and around nipiy, the water, pahkisimon, the sunsets and askiy, the land.
Art and Fashion have always been a part of my family's identity. For me and many Indigenous folks it is a way of expressing yourself. It is a way of storytelling. Mullyanne is a name I carry with honour. Nimâmâ growing up on the rez in Wabasca would always stand out for how she would dress. Mixing together patterns and colors in ways no one else had. She was always referred to as Mullyanne. The story of Mullyanne that has been told to me is that she was a Nehiyaw elder in the community who would Natohksisot, (dress in all kinds of ways). The name Mullyanne was given to her by her community and again was given to Nimama for how she would dress. When I came into the world I became little Mullyanne. I have always looked up to Nimama so to receive this name felt very special. When I would visit my Kokums and aunties in Wabasca in the summers and would be called Mullyanne, I always felt held with love. It is an honour. I carry that name, story and spirit with me when performing. In hopes the audience can also feel held with love from all the aunties and Kokums.