Maskeraid was born during the pandemic as a mask-making venture while Tammy’s dance studio (Happy Feet Dance) was shuttered due to the health restrictions. Once the demand for masks tapered off, she returned to her lifelong love of beadwork. After owning a dance studio in Niagara Falls for 15 years, Tammy made the difficult decision to close the doors in 2023 and has been on a journey to reclaim her Indigenous roots through drumming, cultural events and elevating her beadwork artistry. Born and raised in Niagara Falls, Tammy has Metis ancestry as well as Irish, Scottish and English roots. She discovered beading at the age of 8 and has dabbled throughout her life. Beading has always been a hobby to fall back on, however, it has taken on an entirely new life. Since closing the studio, Tammy has devoted herself to follow what brings her joy…beading, drumming and learning as much as possible about the beautiful Indigenous culture she did not grow up immersed in but has always called her.

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