Born and raised in New Liskeard, Ontario, Linda Lacko is the youngest of eight siblings in a remarkably creative family. Surrounded by art from the start, she was encouraged to explore her imagination and build confidence in her own artistic voice. Her late brother, sculptor Ernie Fauvelle, once collaborated with her on a commissioned Peter Pan–themed project where she created stained glass wings for Tinkerbell—an experience that deepened her love of design and craft.
Linda’s artistic journey began more than 45 years ago with stained glass, where she developed a fascination with color, light, and structure. In the 1970s she also began experimenting with jewelry making, a skill she continued to refine over time. Life’s responsibilities—raising a family, frequent moves, and work—sometimes required her to pause her creative pursuits, but she always returned to them. Each stage of life brought a new focus: sometimes glass, sometimes jewelry, and now, primarily, beadwork.
Today, Linda’s work is defined by patience, precision, and a deep appreciation for traditional artistry. She draws inspiration from Native geometric design, color theory, and the endless sources of creativity available through books and the internet. Every piece is a balance of experimentation and intention, shaped by decades of learning and curiosity.
Although motivation has not always come easily, Linda credits the encouragement of friends, family, and new acquaintances for helping her stay connected to her craft. She takes joy in sharing her beadwork with others and hopes that her creations invite people to see the same beauty, meaning, and possibility that she finds in making them.
Her work has been publicly shown in New Liskeard, including during the town’s 100th anniversary exhibition.