Sat., April 26, 2008
10am – 4pm

Witness the thriving traditions of Plateau Native saddle-making, weaving, and beadwork demonstrated live by the artists at the Burke Museum’s all day Plateau Native Arts Celebration.

Nine artists from the Yakama, Cayuse and Nez Perce nations will demonstrate the arts of the Columbia River Plateau region of eastern Washington, Oregon and Idaho. Meet the artists, see how they practice their craft, and learn more about the living culture of the Plateau.

Cornhusk weavers Elza Weaselhead, Sky Weaselhead, and Vivian Harrison will demonstrate the varying techniques of their intricate craft. Elza Weaselhead will also demonstrate tule mat weaving and will discuss the diverse practical and aesthetic uses of tule mats, woven from tule stems collected in marshy areas along the Columbia River.

Roberta Danzuka and Geraldine Miller will demonstrate different types of beadwork. Elaborate beadwork is an art that requires much training and practice and is commonly used by Plateau artists as a decorative technique on clothes, shoes, bags and more.

Speak with HollyAnna Pinkham, accomplished saddle maker, about the role of the horse in Plateau culture and the art of saddle-making. Watch as she demonstrates how to make a saddle!

Weavers Jenny Williams and Beatrice Tilleqots and contemporary sculptor Alyne DeCoteau will also be present to show off their work and discuss their experiences as Plateau Native artists.

Plateau Native Arts Celebration is presented in association with two exhibits currently on view, Peoples of the Plateau: The Indian Photographs of Lee Moorhouse, 1898-1915 and This Place Called Home. The artistic styles demonstrated live by the artists will bring to life the long traditions of craft and technique behind the Plateau objects featured in the exhibits. The event is free with museum admission.