Join Mi’kmaq crafter Tara Francis as she introduces you to the world of quillwork, an artistic practice that was historically prized. Quillwork is an ancient art that often resulted in the Mi’kmaq being referred to as the “porcupine people”.
Tara Francis is one of only a few who teach this art form in the Atlantic provinces. In this weekend workshop, she will teach you about the history of quillwork, show you how to dye porcupine quills, and guide you as you design and assemble your own quilled medallion. You will leave not only with new skills and a completed piece of art, but also with a better understanding of Mi’kmaq culture through crafts.
Please Note: The program costs cover the leaders’ travel, honoraria, accommodations and meals, plus your accommodations, three meals and three snacks per day and a nominal registration fee. We do not agree with exploiting Indigenous culture or knowledge. We do believe that cross cultural experiences can promote much needed right relations between peoples. The Tatamagouche Centre is not making a profit from this program.
Program Cost: $375 (tuition, meals & accommodation)
Local Price: $295 (without overnight)
We strive to make our programs as accessible as possible.
Please contact our Registrar to inquire about a bursary or payment plan.
Please register at least 2 weeks in advance to secure your place in this program.
Leadership
Tara Francis
Tara Francis is a Mi’kmaq visual artist from Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick. She specializes in Mi’kmaq Porcupine Quill work and Silk Paintings, inspired by the history and traditions of the Mi’kmaq people, as well as her own Spirituality and connection to Mother Earth.
She has been working in the arts for 12 years, teaching her craft at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, as well as in several workshops throughout the Atlantic Provinces. Her work is spread over the world, to as far as Mali, Germany, Belgium, Hawaii and Mexico. She has been awarded a Creation Grant from ArtsNB, for her exploration of the Mi’kmaq Petroglyphs. She practices her craft in Fredericton NB, where she has an art studio, from April to December.
Judy Googoo
Judy Googoo never visited a hospital while growing up in Baddeck and Wagmatcook. All her medicines were prepared by her mother and grandmother and passed on over time. Judy is an Elder who has been studying and cataloguing medicines from this region infusing her own experiences and practices with traditional knowledge.
Judy is also an artist and makes jewelry which she sells at her log cabin shop on the reserve. She owns a variety of businesses and raises a wide assortment of animals including love birds, turkeys, goats and horses in her home in Wagmatcook.
Judy is also a Program Resource Group (PRG) facilitator at Tatamagouche Centre.