This week I’d like to highlight the artwork of Shawna Boulette Grapentine, who has created this central panel depicting indigenous children who were lost at Residential Schools, but in this image they are reunited as they make their way home.
Known for using silhouettes of nature and vibrant colours in her custom paintings, Shawna Boulette Grapentine is an Oji-Cree, born in the city of Winnipeg, Canada. She was raised in the small Metis community of Manigotagan and is a member of the Hollow Water First Nation Treaty 5 territory in Manitoba.
100% of net proceeds from Always in Our Hearts will be donated by Northcott Fabrics, to Quilts for Survivors and the Orange Shirt Society.
Vanessa Genier is the founder and director of Quilts for Survivors in Canada. This amazing organization has gifted over 8,300 quilts to Survivors and families, as of December 2025. I have met Vanessa on my many visits to Quilt Canada, which is happening in Winnipeg June 17-20. I can’t make it this year, but I know Vanessa and her volunteers will be there again bringing love and healing to those in need.
I learned about the residential schools firsthand during my trips to Churchill in Manitoba, where I met elderly Meti and First Nation women who had been taken from their families as children. Of course we have a parallel story here in the US. You can support Vanessa’s work by making and donating a quilt, contributing as a sponsor, or purchasing this fundraiser panel.
Sharing your passion for fabric…
Luana & Paul
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Travel/Lecture Dates:
July 28 – Aug 2 – Festival of Quilts – Birmingham UK
Nov 12-15 – Intl Quilt Festival – Houston
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