MEET THE ARTISAN
PHYLLIS COOPER
Business Name: White Buffalo Woman Crafts
Phyllis Cooper (White Buffalo Woman is Phyllis’ Spirit name) grew up in Stephenville on the west coast of Newfoundland. She started her crafting journey many years ago by making moccasins for her children, then her grandchildren and friends. From there she went to pow wows, craft fairs, and farmers markets. Today, as White Buffalo Woman Crafts, Phyllis has sold her moccasins all over Canada and they have also been sold to people in several other countries including Serbia, Australia, and the USA. She is very proud that The Rooms (Gallery and Museum) in St. John’s has displayed her baby moccasins and medicine bags to teach Mi’kmaq culture. A fishing and hunting guide, Phyllis has always lived off the land. Phyllis says making her Indigenous crafts gives her a sense of pride and inner peace. She is inspired daily to make something new or different that people will enjoy.
