Windsor artist opens up new shop selling Indigenous artwork

After years of working for the City of Windsor, Mark Peltier is reconnecting with his passion for art, selling work made by him and other local Indigenous artists in his new store, Native Wonders Gifts and Gallery, on 1239 Ottawa St.

Visitors will be able to purchase paintings, dream catchers, jewelry and clothing accessories, among other wares.

Peltier said he discovered his love for Indigenous art through his late uncle.

"When I was about 12 or 13, I spent the summer with him. So what he had in his living room was lots of Native art and I just fell in love with it," said Peltier.

Born and raised in Windsor, Peltier's Indigenous ancestors were originally from the Wikwemikong Reserve on Manitoulin Island in Georgian Bay.

Peltier said he visits the Wikwemikong Reserve at least once a year to reconnect with his roots.

Although Peltier may not be a household name for many in the city, he is well known among Windsor's Indigenous communities.

"I've been involved with the community for over 30 years. I was at the Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre where I was on the executive board for many years and I was president for about three years," he said.

Peltier opened up his store earlier this month in preparation for his retirement set for a little over a year from now.

He hopes to welcome people from all backgrounds to his store, while also hoping to enlighten visitors about Indigenous peoples and cultures.

Peltier said he ultimately wants to pass on the teachings of his heritage to future generations.