Velma Olsen

Velma Olsen is of Northern Tutchone, Han, and Gwich’in descent. She grew up in the small community of Mayo, Yukon and is a member of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun. The youngest of five children, you would often find her hanging out in the garage with her father, though she also spent a lot of time in the company of her mother and grandmothers, learning their techniques as they beaded slippers and moccasins.  

Velma loves being creative and does not limit herself to one particular medium. She is just as likely to pick up a needle and thread as she is a paint brush or a crochet hook. Though Velma dabbles in all kinds of crafts, the love of beading is second nature to her. She finds great joy in discovering ways to incorporate her traditional First Nations teachings into her more modern contemporary projects.