Today

Sharing knowledge of birch and ash

In 2007, artisans from Odanak and Mashteuiatsh pooled their knowledge of ash and birchbark work in a cultural exchange that transformed the way they practice their crafts. After being introduced to birchbark work, Mariette Manigouche combined it with sewing—her specialty—to create an innovative product.

1-6. Mariette Manigouche, Ilnu
Photographs : Sarah-Emmanuelle Brassard
La Boîte Rouge vif archives, 2007

Waban-aki (Abenaki) basketry
Promoting and transmitting traditional skills

As a participant in a material culture and design workshop, Annette Nolett drew on her newfound awareness of her valuable skills to create a screen incorporating all the various types of ash splint weaving as well as a new pattern she invented. Inspired to pass traditional techniques along to the younger generations, she now teaches basketry in her community.

1-2. Screen depicting basketry techniques, 2006
Annette Nolett
Black ash, pine, rush rope, nylon rope, Chinese rope, vine branches, sweetgrass, leather, beads, feathers
Photographs : Jean-François Vachon
La Boîte Rouge vif archives, 2008