Please join us for a presentation by Ruby Alexis from the Okanagan Indian Band on The Re-emergence of Okanagan Traditional Fibres, exploring a variety of traditional fibres used by the Okanagan-Syilx peoples in a historical, modern, functional and artistic context. The presentation will emphasize the prominent role of “sp’its’n or Hemp Dogbane in Okanagan-Syilx and other Plateau tribal cultures. Sp’its’n, [speets-in] or Dogbane hemp, is a traditional and culturally significant fibre plant used by the Okanagan-Syilx and other Plateau tribes in Canada and the United States.
Also included in the evening will be a weaving and processing demonstration, including twining/weaving with April Alexis –Phelan and Ruby Alexis and netting/dip net with Wally Louis, Kenny Williams and Gary Bonneau. Both projects involve the processing of raw fibre with opportunities for hands on participation.
The Re-emergence of Okanagan Traditional Fibres is one of three special events being held at the Lake Country Art Gallery during the month of February as part of the first Central Okanagan Spirit Festival. Relations features works by several 1st Nations Okanagan artists including Lee Claremont, Stephen Foster, Catherine Jameson, Janine Lott, and June Paul. Other Spirit Festival special events at the Lake Country Art Gallery include an artist talk on Thursday February 17 with the Relations artists. On Thursday February 24 artist Destanne Norris will present Life, Nature, Art & Healing, exploring the power art can play in self-discovery and healing.
All events begin at 7pm. Admission is by donation. For more information please visit the Gallery at 10356A Bottom Wood Lake Rd, email lakecountryartgallery@telus.net or call 250-766-1299.