PHOTOS | Master seamstresses gather in Inuvik, N.W.T., to learn from each other

This week in Inuvik, N.W.T., was a time for creation and sharing of knowledge at the Nihtat Gwich'in office.

The event, dubbed "Do your best: A Bead, Berry and Wellness Gathering," was organized by Denise McDonald. She said it was important to her to gather a group of master seamstresses to learn from each other.

A focus was on wellness and sharing stories with each other. Every day started with a prayer circle and a time to speak.

Twenty-five participants came from all across the territory to take part in what McDonald said was "possibly the last time all these women will gather in the same room like this."

Diane Baxter works on her moccasins. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

Many different designs of beadwork were on display during the gathering. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

All the participants and seamstresses who gathered in Inuvik this week to learn from master seamstresses. (Submitted by Denise McDonald)

Eleanor Mitchell Firth and Denise McDonald put out some hides for cutting. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

Annie Buckle and Elizabeth Semmler were quietly working while the room was abuzz with activity. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

Bernice Lavoie, Annie Kay, Sheena Yakelaya and May Andre shared stories while beading. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

More examples of the intricate beadwork designs on cardholders and keychains that some of the seamstresses brought. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

Karen Wright Fraser prepares to sew her newest project at the gathering. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

These boots were hand-sewn and hand-beaded. (Dez Loreen/CBC)

Maslyn Scott and Clara Evalik sit together while Judy McLeod works at the next table. (Dez Loreen/CBC)