Representing the work of Indigenous artists
Representing the work of Indigenous artists
free shipping on orders $100 or more
About Biidaaban
About Biidaaban
Biidaaban Gallery was established in 2018 and located in Port Perry on the territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation (MSIFN) in the Township of Scugog. Port Perry, the historic town in Scugog where MSIFN is located, is affectionately referred to as the "gateway to cottage country." Resting on the shores of Lake Scugog.

Biidaaban translated means First Light, dawn comes; it is daybreak.

Our gallery represents the work of Indigenous Artists from Canada and the United States.

The gallery has established a national reputation for carrying a diverse selection of authentic Indigenous arts and crafts with many Tribal groups represented. The shop offers fine quality to the novice as well as collector - fulfilling part of its mission to build widespread appreciation for the skill and time involved in the arts and crafts and to the continuation of artistry through today's generation.

Artist areas represented at the Biidaaban Gallery include pottery, jewelry, quill and beadwork, sculptures, weavings, basketry, carvings, as well as miscellaneous craft items. The shop also boasts an extensive selection of jewelry, books, clothing and purses. The staff of Biidaaban love sharing their knowledge of the arts and crafts and will easily turn your visit into an educational and enjoyable one.

Giving a gift is a sign of affection, honor and ceremony in the world today and the act of gift giving as we know it derives its roots from the early First Nation and Native American cultures. Much like today, gift giving was a way to bring people together and form bonds. But gifts and gift giving also played a hugely important role in the everyday society of early indigenous people—not just on occasions.

Gift giving for the Ojibway was integral to community. Giving a gift was both a symbolic and practical approach to everyday living in that gifts were given at ceremony, as well as for survival.

The gift of a beaded necklace might symbolize a passage into adulthood, while the gift of a tool or weapon may have signified the passing of duty from old to young. Gifts of food and other resources represented the strength of community and gifts of decorum might symbolize status within the tribe itself.

Today, while we may give gifts for a number of reasons, these reasons might not be as deep or as essential as gift giving was to Indigenous peoples prior to contact. In the eyes of those who craft and create these objects, giving and receiving them still means an offering of life.
Biidaaban Gallery Logo