Northwest Indian College Awarded Funds for Weavers Teaching Weavers Conference

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Native Brief: BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON - The Northwest Indian College announced it has received funding for its annual Weavers Teaching Weavers conference that is set for April.

Master Weaver Teachers

The Weavers Teaching Weavers conference helps to preserve the art of weaving by providing a space where novice apprentice weavers can learn from master weavers. Grant funds will help cover some event costs, including hosting master weaver teachers, event supplies and food.

“This is an opportunity for Native weavers to come and learn from each other, and from some highly experienced weaver teachers,”

said Susan Given-Seymour, director of Northwest Indian College's Cooperative Extension Department, which organizes the conference.

"The Tribes wanted a professional development opportunity for some of their weavers in order to create more teachers for this endangered cultural art."

Given-Seymour continued.

The Weavers Teaching Weavers conference received the funding from the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation.

"Support for this country's Native arts and cultures is critical to our foundation's mission, which is to nurture the creativity of Native artists and organizations through our grantmaking program,"

said T. Lulani Arquette, a Native Hawaiian and Foundation President and CEO.

Last year, 139 people representing 29 tribes participated in the conference.

posted February 2, 2012 7:40 am est