Artist and fashion designer Linda Kay is an Ojibway/Cree born in Red Lake, Ontario and now a member of the Seabird Island Band in British Columbia. Linda has had a strong interest in sewing and fashion from an early age.
In 1996, Linda’s interest in designing native clothing was inspired by Carol Starlight Mason, a fashion designer from the Blood reserve in Alberta, who became Linda’s mentor and creative inspiration. Linda is known for her distinctive vests, coats, and jackets for men, women and children.
Her most recent designs include formal wear and traditional dance regalia. Some of Linda’s designs are her own creations depicting her Ojibway/Cree heritage, and others are her interpretations of the Coast Salish/Sto: lo culture. She is inspired by various other First Nation artists and likes to promote and ensure their recognition.
Ringing Bell Robes is the name of Linda Kay’s fashion line, derived from her Cree name “Kaysaywaysemat.” Her creations have sparked interest in communities across Canada and she has shown her designs in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Montana.
A recent honor was being selected, along with 10 other First Nation designers from across Canada, to show her fashions at the National Aboriginal Music Awards and the Skydome Powwow held in Toronto, Ontario.
Linda has been coordinating fashion shows since 1997. Noticing how her young models experienced such a sense of pride after participating in one of her fashion shows, she began a youth self-esteem focusing on image, teamwork, leadership, and modeling.
The successful program gives youth a peek into the fashion industry and provides them with an opportunity to participate in a fashion show; either on the runway or behind the scenes.
With a background in administration and Aboriginal Community Economic Development, Linda has dedicated the last 30+ years of her life to working in Aboriginal communities. Her goals are to continue working with First Nations people.