Cedar Art Workshop with Wayne Bell

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Saturday, April 26th, 2014
9:00 AM

Immerse yourself in a full day cedar workshop with renowned cedar artist Wayne Bell. On Saturday, April 26th, the day begins at 9:00am with Wayne leading a field trip to harvest cedar bark in the traditional style of area indigenous peoples. Returning to the Museum, for the second part participants will learn how to weave with the collected bark. Wayne will demonstrate basic cedar weaving, using as examples roses, rings, rope, coasters and simple baskets. This hands on workshop will run from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

Cedar bark harvesting is an ancient and respected tradition amongst the peoples of this area. Archaeologists working on the coast have recovered artifacts such as clothing, mats, sails, canoe bailers, baskets, and rope all made from cedar bark; some more than 3000 years old.

Hereditary Mamilikwilla Nation Chief Wayne Bell's Cedar Bark Masks are considered to be in the style of the oldest historic Kwagiulth art in the world. His Eagle Cedar Bark Mask resides at the Senate of Parliament, Ottawa, Ontario. Wayne began weaving at the age of five with Henry Jumbo Bell, and was given permission to teach and to harvest the cedar bark by Captain George Quocksister (Kwinkwolith).

In Vancouver he began weaving again with his grandmother Katy Ferry and her brother the late Sam Henderson. Wayne has been teaching Cedar Bark Weaving for 30 years in both the Vancouver School District and the Campbell River School District. His daughter Norine is following her father's footsteps.

Participants must come prepared with a lunch, and wear clothing and footwear suitable for wet forest conditions. A hatchet is also recommended.

Space is limited. Call the Museum at 287-3103 to register. Cost is $80 per person.