Adria Cooper

Senior Project Advisor

Jerald Ek Romero

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Summer 2024

Keywords

basket, clam basket, basketmaker, basketweaver, Coast Salish, Northwest Coast, archaeology, Experimental Archaeology, Generationally-Linked Archaeology, Historical Particularism, Ethnoarchaeology, cedar, traditional knowledge, warp, weft, cordage

Abstract

This project aims to explore and foster a connection with Coast Salish, and more broadly, Northwest Coast basketry through the act of weaving itself. The Northwest Coast of America, home to diverse and culturally rich peoples for at least 10,000 years, boasts a vibrant basketry tradition. As an uninvited settler on Coast Salish lands, I grew up familiar with much of Coast Salish and Northwest Coast art, yet I had little knowledge of its cultural significance or production methods. This gap in my understanding, coupled with a fascination for the rich cultural tradition, motivated me to pursue an education in archaeology. As an artist, I found the craftsmanship displayed in my classes particularly captivating. My creative background put me in a unique position to connect with these artistic traditions and practices. This paper provides context for the art of basketry, details my experience weaving, examines the archaeological significance of ancient baskets, and underscores the importance of preserving this tradition.

Department

Anthropology

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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