2005 | 2006


Peace and Joy from April, Vanessa, De and Noelle

This year I had the pleasure of meeting many beautiful people who encouraged and inspired me to present my line of clothing and jewelry called “Indian Summer”. I would like to thank all the models who so graciously gave me their time and energy… they are all very beautiful inside and out! There were many hair-stylists and make-up artists who spent many hours helping me create ‘the look’ and they were all very sensitive to my artistic vision… namely ‘Clear Hair Studio’. I would also like to mention a special thank you to; Blanche MacDonald and John Casablanca students for ‘tirelessly’ working with us behind the scenes, Nitanis Desjarlais of Butterfly FX Video Productions, Kanata Blankets for their generous donation to 'The Elders Speak Wisdom Society' at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, and of course our webmaster Greg Pierre.

But most importantly, I would like to thank my talented and beautiful assistants Vanessa and April who have worked right along side me on all my shows for the last couple of years. They are the corner posts of my productions and together with Noelle their energy and support has given me the courage to create and present the most professional shows possible. I thank them and look forward to another year of creating and working with them.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope 2006 brings you much peace and love. I leave you with these words I wrote earlier this year…

Trust in yourself,
Be who you are.
Know that your spirit is always with you…
trying to connect to self.
You are in control of your destiny.
You are the visionary.
You are the light.

Aho

NOX 2005

 

Who’s Hot?


please allow video to load (3.7mb)

The launch of our ‘Indian Summer’ fashion line is exciting and wonderful! At the October 13th fashion show, the crowd looked on as the models strutted down the catwalk in the Riel inspired blouses with Melton jackets wrapped with satin embroidered sashes. The line up included an array of bolero vests and skirts fitted with big buckle belts that included fringed pouches. The hair was magnificently ‘designed’ by Clear Hair Studio in Vancouver. They took our aboriginal theme with cloth and feathers and created hair-styles that were master-pieces all on their own. The models were stunning. Each brought her own unique look and style to the clothing and show which gave the audience much to cheer about. The show closed with a colourful array of wool and cashmere coats with oversized shawl collars and large abalone buttons. All of this, combined with original hand-made jewelry pieces that are reminiscent of ancestral regalia makes a statement that is hard to ignore. So... what’s next?

The UMM 7th year Anniversary Party at Bar None in Vancouver!!! Umm…what’s that you say? Urban Male Magazine is one of Canada’s hottest magazines and ‘Indian Summer’ is invited to their anniversary party in Vancouver to show our stuff or rather… strut our stuff. Can’t wait and neither can the girls!


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What's New? Who's Hot?

 

What's New?

GATECON 2005


de Brillon with Phil Hsueh of Stargate SG-10c Prop builders from California, USA.   Fans rally around Richard Hatch.


Jerry Rector of Star Trek TNG                              Julie Brown of Legends Memorabilia.


Nathaniel Arcand signed autographs and created a lot of attention for our new design'Westcoast Mystique'. Actor Steve Bacic talks to fans from as far away as Holland.


Travis and Nathaniel opened the show with a resounding performance dedicated to our 'Star People' whom some consider were perhaps the first sightings of extra-terrestrials! Aho!

Gatecon 2005 is one of the largest events held for Sci-Fi fans.   Artifaax was invited by publicist and organizer Bill Wanstrom of Wanstrom & Assoc . to participate with a booth. Nice!   There were a few inquisitive looks at our First Nations' gear but it didn't take long before the curious 'trekies'   were asking questions and buying our tees and jewelry and sporting them around the conference.   Then of course... it didn't hurt having Nathaniel and Travis there to showcase our 'culture'. Ah huh!

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Who's Hot?

‘Culture Shock’ Tour Hits Van


DJ Shock B and Quese IMC                                               Shock B films Quese IMC



Quese IMC

It’s About Honour..
Artists Quese IMC and DJ Shock B of Culture Shock were honoured to perform at a recent event held by *KAYA. Culture Shock came to perform at UBC Thunderbird Stadium in Vancouver and did a preview show. Curtis Clearsky, youth project coordinator for KAYA says they were honoured to have these special guests come and share their vision and talent at their event. But in the end, Artifaax was much honoured. Culture Shock likes our style. Mmm... I think the word was… ‘siick’. We thought they were pretty siick too! Both artists have a positive and upbeat message to share through music and workshops. They don’t only talk the talk.. they walk the talk! Aho.

Check out their website www.cultureshockcamp.com for more information and watch for them this fall in the epic film ‘The New World’.
*Knowledgeable Aboriginal Youth Association

 

 

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Who's Hot?

Artifaax presented the first pieces of a new collection of jewelry called "Indian Summer" at the ThinkNDN Hip Hop Bash at the Media Club in Vancouver, BC with Kanata's Next Top Models !    (See below for more information on "Indian Summer".)  

 

What a team!   The make-up artists and hairstylists managed to pull it all together with special details such as adding rhinestones and weaving colored ribbon through braided hair.

Make up artists: Talysia Ayala, Abbey Ratcliff and Lisa Mannas created a new spin on 'war paint' for our fashion show.

 

 


Garry K photography
Models: Jamie, Marie, Melanie, Lorinda, Evie, Daniele, Zoe, Fiona, Jolene, Karen, Spring Dawn, Nadine and designer/producer Denise Brillon.

To create this fashion show it took many volunteers who graciously gave us their most valuable commodity - time.    I would like to thank professional make up artists Talysia Ayala, ( www.talysia.com ) and Abbey Ratcliff for the hours of preparation and time spent to create a unique style and look for our presentation of "Indian Summer".   I'd also like to thank hair dressers Erika Jorgensen and Crystal Busch for stepping in with volunteers to create the "ribbon and braids" theme for the hair.   And of course, many thanks to our host the energetic and enthusiastic Suzette Amaya ( http://thinkndn.tripod.com ) for inviting us to participate in her successful event.

 

What's New?

One of our new lines is called ' Indian Summer' .   Designer Denise Brillon is using semi-precious stones and Czech glass beads which are cut like crystal and silver fittings to create unique pieces with her lucite pendants. "My inspiration comes from old postcards that I have collected for years... our people are always dressed so uniquely and colorful ... they could make the most simple pieces of nature or cloth into elaborate ornaments and clothing." She says she was fascinated at how many crosses adorned the neck pieces of our ancestors.   It was definitely the inspiration to create the mother of pearl chokers with garnet. "The crosses lay to the left of the choker to protect your heart.   I have an incredible picture of my Great-Grand Mother Theresa and around her neck is a beautiful large white cross.   How beautiful!   I hope she knows, in some way, this collection honours her spirit and beauty."

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

My Great grand-mother Theresa

 


'Red Cloud' is commemorated in this series of T-shirts.

Indian Summer will present a limited series of t-shirts to commemorate some of our greatest leaders through a collogue of retro-styled embroidered themes.   Brillon says she has always wanted to pay tribute to the people who have inspired her through their legacies of bravery and tenacity.   " Tecumseh " is definitely one of my favorite heroes... He tried so hard to unify and present an organized front to negotiate and protect our homelands.   This is history that needs to be remembered and taught in an honorific way to all nations.   I hope these shirts make people all over the world ask questions and take the time to learn more about our true history."

NOX

 

 
Who's Hot?

 

 

If you’re a fan of Little House On The Prairie then you’ll be happy to know that Griffin Powell Arcand from the Cree Nation is playing a role on the new series which will air this month. If you would like some advice on what to do for that big audition then this lit’ man has some great recommendations for all of us. Check out his interview at: www.prairiefans.com

 


 

 


A star in the 'house' Griffin
Powell Arcand

The New Little House on the Prairie mini series premieres Saturday, March 26, 2005 at 8:00-10:00 p.m., ET on ABC .

  Toque Restaurant

Montreal is fabulous! Artifaax had the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and experience its charm and captivating people. I went to the famous Toque (pronounced To-Kay) and had the pleasure of meeting world-renowned chef Normand Laprise. This restaurant is situated in 'Old' Montreal yet it is one of the most pristine and contemporary establishments I have ever visited. The food has the same quality. It is prepared within the traditional confines of French protocol yet the menu is refreshingly new and invigorating. The presentation was modern with eloquence and style. The taste … simply delicious!


Denise Brillon with Toque Chef Normand Laprise

I also had the pleasure of meeting a wonderful group of women from Fashion for Passion, which is a community fundraiser that draws designers all the way from Europe and attracts an audience of close to a thousand people! Next year we hope to participate in this remarkable show. This year we were proud to contribute with an ad in their program. I also had a wonderful visit with David Haze of David Haze Boutique on the trendy Crescent Avenue. His store carries an assortment of styles from Paris, France that would please the most discerning of clients. Monsieur Haze will definitely bring you up to date as to what is happening in fashion and in Montreal! Artifaax would also like to thank Brahm Elkin of the Apparel Human Resources Council for helping to make this trip successful. They are a great networking resource for businesses.

Bono is definitely still HOT! There is an article on the rock star in the recent Vogue Magazine March 2005. In it he speaks about the power and political statements that are made in how you shop! "There is a story to every piece of clothing that we wear. In the past people haven't wanted to know that story. That's about to change!" He likens it to can of beans. "People are not going to buy a tin of beans loaded with preservatives if they can buy another one. And if it's 2 cents or 20 cents more expensive, then that's how people will feel more luxurious in the future. And by the way, this is significant in cultural terms, because this is the end of the sixties idea that revolution is around the corner. People now know it's not. It's in their kitchen. It's in their footsteps, in the choices that they make to buy this and not that."


Vogue Magazine/March 2005, Bono page-529

This brings me to the point of why I went to Montreal in the first place! Artifaax has now sourced out a line of t-shirts that are totally cut, dyed, and sewn in Canada. As Bono suggests, we as consumers should take the time to look at labels and make our statements through our power of buying. If there is a choice to be made between a Canadian made product and that of another country then Artifaax believes in supporting our economy. We hope with this unique line of t shirts that your decision will be easy because we intend on providing you with the finest quality t- shirts and the most unique designs Canada has to offer!

Whats New?


             New Label                               Artifaax Logo

Artifaax has a new *logo, label and line of t-shirts that will have their first showing at Vancouver Fashion Week 2005. (Please call us for more specific details.) The line is vibrant and colourful. The t-shirts are as soft as cashmere and have style with detail to rival any competition and most importantly… they are MADE IN CANADA. Artifaax has always had original designs and now we look forward to presenting them on this unique line of t-shirts. We will also continue our 'evening tees' of fine jersey from an American company until there is a manufacturer in Canada who can provide a similar product. Be assured though, that the company we use in the United States has the highest standards and work ethics in North America.


Artifaax has new line of t-shirts made in Canada.


Artifaax presents "In Spirit" by David Bell

And to save the best for last, we have a series of designs that have just been completed in honour and memory of my dear friend David Bell who suddenly past away last fall. The concept was first initiated over a year ago when I asked David to create some west coast motifs for a yoga series of t-shirts I wanted to create. I thought they were lost forever after his passing until this year. I stumbled on the old faxes we sent back and forth and with just a few touches here and there we have the beginning of this incredible series! We will present the first of these designs at Vancouver Fashion Week 2005. This yoga series is definitely 'East meeting West'. It is named in memory of my dear friend who continually inspired me when I needed it the most... the series will be called "In Spirit" by David Bell. "Inspire" is Latin for 'in spirit' ... Ahoe!

*Logo by Denise Brillon. It represents the sea to the sky by showing one side of an eagle's face and one side of the tail of a whale.

NOX

 

 

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VANCOUVER FASHION WEEK 2004



Artifaax presented 'Nox by Design'…a bold line of distinctive jewelry to complement the subtle but distinctive line of 'evening tees'. This year we’ve added brown on black with embroidered satin sashes and a splash of fushia tees with velvet flocking. The hummingbird and bear drawings are new designs created by John Brillon. For more information on Brillon and a sample of his incredible artwork see www.shopfirstnations.com/jbrillon/jbrillon.htm.

Designers: Lilia Edmondson, Leona Edenshaw, Denise Brillon-Hill, Lori Davis, Norma Nahanee, Sandra Greene and Harriet Prince all took part in the first Vancouver Fashion Week First Nations’ Up and Coming Designer Showcase.

I had the opportunity to coordinate the First Nations Segment of Vancouver Fashion Week 2004. I would really like to take this time to thank Noelle Gobin, Charlotte Mearns, Talysia Ayala, Stanley Thomas, Vanessa Campbell, April Campbell, Christina Campbell, Colleen Patterson, Joe Bolton, Touch of Culture and J.R. Brooke Ashley for all their help at the show. I would also like to thank Jamal of Vancouver Fashion Week for all his encouragement and the staff who went out of their way to accommodate our show. A special ‘Hychka Siem’ to Adrienne and the production team at the Interior Design Show. The stage was incredible! It had a waterfall as a backdrop, which really lent itself to the theme of the show. I voiced over *‘A Message From The Hopi Elders’… and included the voice of Lekeyten and the singing of Dennis Leon with daughters Lisa and Cece… and of course to SOS Music for pulling it all together in record time! Thank you for all your positive comments on our segment in Vancouver Fashion Week. ZeD on CBC will be airing a small segment on Artifaax’ participation.

Above: Lisa C. Thomas, Cecilia L. Leon, Dennis Leon, Lekeyten, Denise Brillon Hill contributed to the sound track for the fashion show opening.

Artifaax is pleased to announce that our line of products will be in a ‘Brightline Production’ coming out this fall. The working title is ‘Johnny 2 Tall’ and stars actor Adam Beach who always gives a stellar performance and leading lady actress Alex Rice. Rice emailed saying our tees are ‘gorgeous’ …we think she is too! Check out her website at www.alexrice.biz. She has a list of credits that also shows how talented she is. We’ll have some pictures of the actors on location in our next update! Watch for this film, as it is suppose to be a great script with a great cast of First Nations’ actors. Congratulations to the producers of this movie for searching out and bringing together some of our best talent… Hychka Siem!

What's new?

This year Artifaax is going to be at the Canadian Aboriginal Festival at the Skydome Stadium in Toronto, Ontario. It begins on November 26 and will run till the 28th. Artifaax.com will be in Booth ‘M’ on the turf. Hope to see you there! Also check out our new line at Wickanninish Gallery on Granville Island (604 681 1057), The Vancouver Art Gallery downtown Vancouver (604 662 4706) and Indigena located in Molly’s Lane Market, Gibsons, B.C (1604 741 7042). Please call ahead for availability.


*Message from the Hopi Elders
“We have been telling the people that this is the Eleventh Hour. Now you must go back and tell the people that this is the Hour and there are things to be considered. Where are you living? What are you doing? What are your relationships? Are you in the right relation? Where is your water? Know your gardens. It is time to speak your truth. Create your community. Be good to each other. And do not look outside yourself for the leader. This could be a good time! There is a river flowing now very fast and so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid. They will try to hold onto the shore. They will feel they are being torn apart and they will suffer greatly. But the river has its destination. The Elders say we must let go of the shore and push off and into the river, keep your eyes open and your head above the water. See who is in there with you and celebrate. At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally. Least of all ourselves… For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt. The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves! Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary. All that you do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for…” The Elders, Hopi Nation, Oraibi, Arizona

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Another great personality we've had the pleasure of meeting is actor Nathaniel Arcand. Arcand who is an incredible actor and kick-boxer (see list of movie credentials and fan site: www.nathaniel-arcand.iwarp.com ) honoured us by modeling our line of men's tees last year. This year Arcand chose to wear our 'Artifaax T-shirt' in a pilot production he worked on for television. Arcand stars with Adam Beach in "Moose TV" which will air August 6th @ 7pm on CBC. We'll be watching Nathaniel. Good luck!

What's new?

I want to thank so many of you for your kind words of support and encouragement. It seems many of you are enjoying the clean lines and modern way Artifaax displays westcoast art. It is a trademark we're proud of. I'm developing some new products that are certainly garnering a lot of attention.

(front) (back)

We have a new line of T's that are dedicated to the memory of Louis Riel. A famous quote attributed to Riel is "My people will sleep for 100 years, and when they awake, it will be the artists who give them back their spirit." I am certainly honoured and proud to promote his spirit and all that he represented, in my next collection. Within a couple of weeks, the first set of Louis Riel tees will be ready! There will be a set of Uni-tees (for men and woman) and a line exclusive for woman in fine jersey and fitted spandex. Rhinestones will be set in the Fleur de Lis on the ladies shirts. The ladies shirts will be in white with turquoise/black design. The uni-tees will be available in olive green/black on white shirts. All shirts will have the Riel crest at the top, middle back portion of the t-shirt.

Artifaax Acrylics - Sunhawk design by John Brillon looped with a silver chain, Eagle by Heber Reece with black acrylic cord and silver fittings adorned with sea foam baroque nugget, Cropped Eagle also with sea foam baroque nugget and silver snake chain.

I am also excited about the new line of jewelry… Artifaax Acrylics. We have had a wonderful response from everyone that viewed the samples of earrings and neckpieces. Thank you once again for your support and please don't hesitate to send us an email if you have any questions or suggestions: artifaax@yahoo.ca.

Next time we'll let you know how the screening of "Kwa Kwen Tn - Eagles Circling Above" goes. I had the honour of producing and directing this documentary for the Circle of Eagles Lodge Society in Vancouver, BC. Professionals and students filmed and chronicled the journey. They captured their vision of building a canoe and taking it to some of the most celebrated communities along the west coast. This documentary takes you with them on their journey. A screening will be held at the Vancouver East Cinema on Commercial Drive at 1 o'clock on Friday July 16, 2004. Everyone is welcome!

 

NOX

 

URBANITIES:
ARTFUL
ARTIFAAX

Rebecca Philps
Vancouver Magazine

March 2004

 

  

SPOTLIGHT

Denise Brillon-Hill, B.C.born with French and Métis heritage, has found a way to combine her love of native art (she once owned a small First Nations gallery) and fashion (she comes by it honestly, as the niece of Blanche Macdonald). Her big idea was to create a new medium for the art that would be accessible to clientele outside the usual suspects: art collectors and tourists. The result is Artifaax, a label that includes soft, fitted tees and laser carved leather cuffs, both adorned with northwest coast motifs. Brillon-Hill works with the artists to simplify their original designs, emphasizing clean lines and forms. “It’s like remixing old music.” At Liquid, Republika and Raya.

 

 

“END THE SILENCE”

Music Video For Stop the Violence Against Women Week

The video for "End the Silence" was partially shot in "Sonar" nightclub in Vancouver, B.C. Artifaax was proud to contribute.. Shankhini proudly wore our leather cuff and sunhawk t-shirt in the outdoor shots and graciously mentioned our name to the packed house of fans. The video also had a cameo appearance from B.C's own Nelli Furtado whom Shankhini admires and had the honour of singing with on Furtado's long play of "On the Radio". End the Silence" was written and presented for Stop the Violence Against Women Week. It is a passionate song, sung by two passionate woman who donate a lot of time and energy to this cause. Hopefully we can get a clip for you to listen to! We'll work on it.

 

  
 
 
 

 

SUSIE’S NIGHT OUT

Susie Wall The Province
Monday, February 02, 2004

FASHION SHOW @ CRUSH

THE SHOW: 29.01.04. Sugar Productions presents: Change Clothes, A Designer Showcase @ Crush Champagne Lounge, with all proceeds going to the B.C. Cancer Foundation.

THE PRODUCERS: The show was staged by three faces of Vancouver’s urban culture and design scene: Christine Gough (interior design), Tara Henley (music journalist) and Morgan Shapero (fashion design). The result? Bullseye.

THE DESIGNERS: Artifaax, Chloe McKinnon, Government, Gentle Fawn, Flosport, Marlena Maikranz, Morgan Shapero, Poola, Snorestud, Sweet Soul, Tourist, Twigg & Hottie, Violet Muse, Aurel Schmidt, Mikan, Micheal, Twice Shy, Bang-On, Jennifer Kongpreecha, Natalie Sands and Peter Tsang.

THE GOODS: From Government's take on botanical-carno strides and Twice Shy's envelope­pushing T collection to the fly First Nations leather cuffs from Artifaax and Snorestud's goth logo gear and ruffle undies — you name it, we loved it.

Photo Credits: Denise Brillon-Hill

 

 

  
 

RAYA'S 7th Birthday

Raya celebrated their 7th year on 'The Drive' by having a fashion show at The Vox Gallery.  People crowded into the  studio to show their support for the young entrepreneurs who dazzled the crowd with flamboyant and classic apparel.


Raya owner/operater Brenda McGuire
with assistent Rene Martin.