Naaahsa says art is a language everyone understands. Sometimes we make art together. We draw, we bead, we sing. Sometimes Naaahsa tells stories in Blackfoot. I even get to go with her to see her art show at the National Gallery. Naaahsa is famous for her art, but I love her hugs best!

Naaahsa is an Artist! is a celebration of art, artists, and Indigenous women artists in particular. Each page comes to life with bold patterns, shapes, and Naaahsa's encouraging words that may inspire young readers to want to make art themselves.

Hali Heavy Shield is a multidisciplinary artist and a member of the Blood Tribe of Southern Alberta. Her first book for children was inspired by the many adventures she’s had with her mom, Faye, who is also an artist. Hali’s work is influenced by experiences in her home community, including Blackfoot stories, significant sites, family, and women as sources of strength and goodness. She lives in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Hali Heavy Shield's profile page

• Joint winner, Second Story Press Indigenous Writing Contest
• Globe 100: Best Book of 2023
• Globe & Mail's Top Ten Children's Book of 2023
• Galleries West Best Art Books of 2023

"This children’s book is gently inspirational...yet another quietly powerful act."

Galleries West

"Readers will feel the safe and comforting presence of the narrator’s grandmother and her strong connection with her granddaughter.... Nevertheless, this is also a story with depth, about maintaining connection to the past through a spoken language – Blackfoot. At residential school, a defiant whisper in Blackfoot says so much: Kitsiikákomimm. I love you.'"

Quill and Quire

“This is a beautifully written and illustrated book that covers a lot of ground in 24 pages. At its heart is the relationship between the young girl and Naaahsa and how she learns to appreciate art, both in small ways like painting at home, and in big ways like attending an art gallery featuring Naaahsa’s work.”

Librarian at Syracuse City School District