The Things We Pass Down

Nita’s private shopping appointment was a family affair. Tommi works down the hall from me and had arranged the fitting, knowing her mom would love the coats. As we three reviewed styles and colours, I sensed that fashion was far from the only activity these two bonded over. There was a relaxed warmth, love, and respect in their relationship that felt unique and rare, and my curiosity was piqued. As we photographed and interviewed the pair for this feature, my initial feeling held fast as they filled us in on adventures that made them much more than mother and daughter. From front row at the Dixie Chicks to taking in a boxing match the night before the shoot, Nita and Tommi are tighter than any other duo I have met. Read on for why, then go hug your mom!

So many things in these photographs symbolizes each of you in the other. Can you please share the story behind some of these items?

Tommi: Each of my tattoos has symbolism linking to a memory, passion, or time in my life. The key on my wrist is most strongly linked to my mother. It is from a Tiffany necklace with a skeleton key I continually borrowed from Nita without permission. I eventually decided to make permanent.

The green ring was a gift from me for my mum. We collected sea glass from a beach in Capri, Italy on one of our travels together. Travel has always been something to bond our relationship. The ring was made by Jenn Scheirer, a talented jeweller and dear friend I graduated ACAD with.

Nita: That ring is one of the most thoughtful gifts I’ve ever received!

Although not pictured, my mother’s wedding rings are also one of those special heirlooms that I cherish dearly. I am my mama’s baby and Tommi is my baby. The ring fits Tommi’s finger perfectly and I’m certain that when they are passed down to her she will wear them with all the love that they hold. My beautiful mama Jenney was a such a gentle soul who loved and honoured and trusted with her whole heart. I see so much of my mother’s gentleness in my children. She is always with me, but more so when my children are around.

You have an enviably close relationship with your children. Are there any traditions you uphold that have nurtured this appreciation of each other?

N: As life speeds up we miss so many moments, taking dozens of pictures that no one ever sees. Family portraits are often overlooked, but I want my kids to be able to see themselves as they grew up; to be able to show their children, to compare noses, cheekbones, and hairlines, to have proof that they and their children look like their ancestors. Annually, I insist on a family photoshoot. My children and husband understand this tradition is important to me and I think it will become more important to them as they get older and see how fast life moves. I’ve made the process more fun by adding a theme or occasion around it. When 10 of you walk into a restaurant wearing your 70s gangster or 80s rockstar outfits it is liberating and character building! Strength in numbers!

Speaking of rockstars, Ken and I were impressed with the multitude of epic concerts you’ve been to. Can you relay one particularly memorable live music experience?

N: My first concert was Billy Joel, back when you could still rush the stage. My husband and I pushed our way to the front. Billy spotted the American flag handkerchief I wore in my hair and held out his hand for it. I gave it to him and he wiped his brow and handed it back to me. My husband’s and my rendition of the next part differs… I possibly was a bit star struck! He claims that I had gripped ahold of Billy’s hand for longer and harder than I should have! Haha!

Amazing! Where does your passion for music spring from?

N: As a small child, I have so many memories connected to music. Falling asleep on a bed covered in coats as family and friends would gather in the living room to play and sing into the night… learning to Two-Step and Waltz in our farmhouse kitchen in rural Alberta while my parents’ 45s played on the turntable… singing hymns with my mom and sisters in church… and then my older siblings exposing me to rock ‘n roll and disco. My family still enjoys getting together to play and sing. It is in our souls.

I should have know! You were definitely the most on-key when the team broke into song during hair and makeup. A lot of people have commented that my sisters and I sing as much as we talk when we are together. It is one of many things I am thankful my mom passed down to us. Tommi, it’s obvious to me that you also share Nita’s passion for music. How else would you say your mother has influenced you?

T: My mother and I share a lot of similar traits. Nita passed down sensitivity and understanding to me. I also obtained my creativity from Nita, whether it is expressed through individuality, style, art, or design. Thanks mum.

We originally met because you work with Studio C, a fellow second floor tenant at cSPACE. Creativity is a cornerstone of your work with them, but you are also a practicing artist and aspiring designer. Please tell me more about your career in the arts.

The way I utilize creativity is not to focus solely on my artistic practice, but rather sourcing it through various outlets such as collaborations and career. That being said, I feel fortunate to have had many meaningful opportunities to showcase my artwork here in Calgary, such as solo shows at TRUCK +15 Window, 5am Gallery, and Small Spaces. My latest piece, a video collaboration with my good friend Jeremy Pavka, is currently showcased as part of Contemporary Calgary’s Planetary Exhibition.

I am the Curator and Gallery Technician at Studio C; a studio and gallery space that innovates through art and creating inclusive culture. I also facilitate art lessons for people with learning differences through Prospect Human Services, the parent company of Studio C. My biggest passion however is my design career, which I am pursuing on the side with my partner. Over the past couple years we have undertaken renovating/developing homes. My goal is to be based here in Calgary as a successful interior designer. It’s certainly not the easiest route without any formal education, but I have always been more spirited in forging my own path.

Jackets: Double Zip Moto, Military Motorcycle Jacket, Two Button Overcoat, Shawl Collar Wrap
Photos: Ken Heinbecker
Beauty: Sarah Jamieson
Models: Nita Watts, Tommi Watts