Preserving Chumash Art Across Generations

Building our traditional tomol canoes and houses, carving wood, stone, and bone….cordage making, cradle making, song making, basket making, film making, dolls, beading, tule boats, bone making, stone making, musical instruments, and the intricacies of regalia—these are all done by our artisans. Knowledge is passed down, skill is honed, and innovations are made: in family homes, at community gatherings, classes, and at organized events. We learn from our elders, our families, our friends, other tribes, books and manuscripts of oral accounts, and from cultural items kept in museums. We create local learning opportunities for our tribal members and we also join other California tribes at gatherings such as the California Basketweaver’s Association.

Our culture moves forward and changes as we integrate new ideas, materials, identity, and technology. Zoom weaving sessions and power tools are mixed with ancient plant gathering practices and prayers in our language.