Ananda X. Suddath, the artist behind Flintstitch Beadwork, was raised in the historic fur trade community of Fort-Coulonge, situated along the Kitchisippi (Ottawa River) in Western Québec, Canada. As a versatile professional electric guitarist since 2009, she has played with a number of Montréal’s award-winning artists and ensembles (jazz, contemporary classical, indie pop/rock).

In 2021, at her family’s cabin on the river, an unsolicited hiatus from her music career gave her the time and space to pursue a longstanding calling to explore traditional Indigenous beadwork. The experience—a fortuitous artistic residency, of sorts—has given rise to an all-new creative outlet, a full-fledged artistic practice, and a burgeoning career as a visual artist. From late 2021 to early 2023, thirteen pieces were completed in as many months; throughout 2023, Suddath focused on developing and launching the flintstitch.com business and website, and delivered 4 commissions (3 wall hangings, one custom necklace) by year’s end.

Suddath is currently developing new works in larger formats as well as a line of original beaded jewelry. Goals for 2024 include creating several new wall hangings, acquiring new technical skills (for 2D and 3D work), building her brand and business (namely, by promoting this website and a brand-new Etsy storefront, flintstitchbeadwork.etsy.com), networking intensively in Montreal and beyond, taking on a number of exciting visual art-related opportunities, and actively re-integrating the local music scene as a professional player with a fresh perspective.

Flintstitch Beadwork is currently based in Montréal.