Northwest Indian College

Artist Networks and Convenings

Location:

Bellingham, WA

Award:

$14,000

Project:

Weavers Teaching Weavers Conference

Website:

www.nwic.edu

Advanced weavers who are members of the Northwest Native American Basketweavers Association (NNABA) and part-time faculty of Northwest Indian College (NWIC) will share their knowledge and skills with novice and apprentice weavers and one another. The activities include a 3-day Weavers Teaching Weavers Conference that allows the most advanced weavers to work with one another and to teach intermediate level weavers the skills needed to become weaving teachers. In addition NNABA will explore issues related to wellness is through basketry at the Native American Women and Girls/Men and Boys Conference addressing personal, family, and community wellness. Laslty, nine basketry courses will be offered throughout the year instructing students in basketry techniques, the history of basketry, appropriate methods for gathering traditional materials, and traditional uses for baskets and other woven objects.

“These gifts demonstrate strong tribal interest in creating a powerful funding engine for protecting and preserving Native art and culture—the very cornerstones of tribal sovereignty. A foundation of this nature will help reverse the long history of government suppression of Native culture done as part of the United States' assimilation program. Through gifts of this nature, Indian Country can direct its resources to protect what is closest to home to all Indian tribes—our own cultures."

Walter Echo-Hawk, Pawnee

Board Chair, Native Arts & Cultures Foundation

“The act of giving was part of the ‘gifting economy’ of the Northwest where one’s wealth was measured by generosity, good work and a good heart. That is the work of philanthropy too: It’s an honor to have plenty and to share. There is no lack when you have this process in place and the most important mindset to have while participating is gratitude, or giving thanks and promising to care for all, no matter what.”

Elizabeth Woody, Navajo/Warm Springs/Wasco/Yakama

K-12 Program Coordinator, Center for Coastal Marine Observation & Prediction

Northwest Indian College

2011/2012 Grantees

2010/2011 Grantees