Elder-Led Nlaka'pamux Arts & Cultural Learning Program
Reconnecting Culture, Community, and Creativity
Cook's Ferry Indian Band Health & Wellness Department is pleased to offer the Elder-Led Nlaka'pamux Arts & Cultural Learning Program, a unique opportunity for community members to learn traditional arts, cultural teachings, language, and land-based knowledge directly from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, artists, and cultural practitioners.
This intergenerational program supports the preservation and revitalization of Nlaka'pamux culture through hands-on workshops that strengthen cultural identity, wellness, creativity, community connections, and traditional knowledge transfer.
Participants will have opportunities to learn traditional harvesting practices, cultural protocols, basketry, leatherwork, sewing, woodworking, stained glass, music, storytelling, and land-based teachings while building relationships with Elders and fellow community members.
Program Dates: July 2026 – December 15, 2026
Location: Cook's Ferry Indian Band and Traditional Nlaka'pamux Territory
See Module for more information.
Registration Required
Funded through the First Peoples' Cultural Council (FPCC) Arts Strengthening Program
Upcoming Workshops
Module 1: Cedar Harvest & Preparation
Module 2: Physical Activity & Land-Based Learning (Coming Soon)
Program Workshops Overview
Module 1: Cedar Harvest & Preparation
Learn traditional cedar harvesting protocols, root gathering techniques, material preparation, and cultural teachings connected to the land. Participants will travel to a traditional harvesting area to learn respectful harvesting practices and prepare materials that will later be used in the Cedar Basketry Workshop.
Module 2: Physical Activity & Land-Based Learning
Explore traditional Nlaka'pamux territory through walking tours, cultural site visits, traditional games, plant identification, gardening activities, and outdoor learning experiences. This module promotes physical wellness while strengthening connections to culture and the land.
Module 3: Spiritual Activities & Cultural Protocols
Learn traditional Nlaka'pamux teachings related to cultural values, spiritual wellness, community responsibilities, ceremony, smudging, and cultural protocols. Participants will engage in storytelling, reflection circles, and discussions with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Module 4: Cedar Basketry Workshop
Using cedar harvested during Module 1, participants will learn traditional basket weaving techniques and create their own cedar basket while exploring the cultural significance of basketry within Nlaka'pamux culture.
Module 5: Leatherwork Workshop
Participants will learn traditional leatherworking techniques while creating functional and culturally meaningful projects. Instruction will include cutting, stitching, design, and finishing methods.
Module 6: Sewing & Regalia Workshop
Develop sewing skills through the creation of regalia, story blankets, drum bags, ribbon skirts, and other cultural items. Participants will explore the cultural significance of each project while gaining practical sewing experience.
Module 7: Woodworking Workshop
Learn safe tool use and woodworking skills while creating practical and cultural projects. Participants will work with experienced instructors while gaining confidence working with wood and tools.
Module 8: Stained Glass Workshop
Express creativity through stained glass art while incorporating cultural themes and personal designs. Participants will complete stained glass projects under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Module 9: Music & Song Workshop
Explore traditional songs, drumming, rhythm, storytelling, and cultural performance. Participants will learn through listening, participation, and mentorship from cultural teachers and musicians.
Module 10: Community Sharing Circle & Cultural Showcase
Celebrate accomplishments and share completed projects with family, friends, Elders, and community members. Participants will reflect on their learning journey and showcase the skills they developed throughout the program.