Indigenous certification – Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan

Indigenous certification

I am Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan, an Ilnu artisan from the community of Mashteuiatsh, in the Lac-Saint-Jean region. Through my creations, I share part of my personal journey, my connection to the land and the teachings that inspire my work.

This page introduces my Indigenous certification and the craftsmanship behind my pieces. It also addresses an essential question: who is the person behind the creation you choose?

Origins and community connection

My Ilnu identity is at the heart of my practice. Each piece takes shape through my experiences, my relationship with the materials and the knowledge passed down by Elders.

My work is rooted in the living culture of Mashteuiatsh. I pursue it with respect, care and integrity, remaining attentive to the meaning of the techniques and symbols I use.

Authenticity of the creations

I make my creations by hand, one at a time. From selecting the materials to adding the finishing touches, every stage requires time and attention. Depending on the piece, I use materials such as:

• 100% genuine moose hide;
• 100% natural rooster feathers;
• Genuine fur selected with care;
• Respectfully gathered wood;
• Stones and meaningful elements.

Natural variations in the hide, wood and feathers give each piece its own character. Even when creations follow a similar design, the handwork and distinctive qualities of the materials set them apart.

Each piece is made with intention. Its symbolic and spiritual dimension is part of my practice and of the connection its recipient may develop with it.

Ethical and cultural practices

My approach is grounded in the care given to each creation, as well as the responsibility that comes with sharing culture. Several principles guide my work:

• Respect for the Ilnu traditions and symbols that inform my practice;
• Intentional, handmade craftsmanship with attention to detail;
• Transparency about the materials used in the creations;
• Respect for cultural knowledge and the boundaries of what can be shared;
• Cultural awareness through conversations and the presentation of my work.

View my certification

You can view my profile on the Identification Premières Nations website. This link lets you access the information published about me directly on the platform.

The certification presented here and my creative practice complement each other: the certification provides a reference for my identity as an Indigenous artisan, while the descriptions of my creations explain the materials, craftsmanship and symbolism of each piece.

View my Identification Premières Nations profile

Why get to know the artisan behind a creation?

Knowing where a piece comes from helps you choose with greater confidence and better understand what you are supporting. Beyond its appearance, a handmade creation carries the work, personal journey and intentions of the person who made it.

Buying directly from an Indigenous artisan supports their work and helps them continue practising their craft. For me, it is also an opportunity to keep my culture alive through creativity and the connections it makes possible.