The Art of Regalia

The Art of Regalia was a pioneered program created by me (William Burnstick). It was the most extensive and elaborate regalia program within Canada before or since.

The Art of Regalia was a fourth month journey into the heart, spirit, and creation of a full set of traditional and fancy regalia for twelve young native people. The course took each of the twelve participants from point of design conception to full regalia and dance instruction.

We worked together to resurrect old traditional values and used them to instill confidence, strength and trust in each other during the entire course. Upon completion of the course, each participant was presented with their Eagle feather collection (bustles, plumes, fans, and feather headdresses) in a veteran, family and community involved ceremony.

It was both a great honour and a challenge to take on this most precious task of sharing my skills as a creator of regalia, and instructor of traditional bead and leatherwork. My belief in this project to instill in the participants a new respect for themselves, and their culture was a great success.