The Fabric Of Life
Nothing in our world happens in isolation. We are all connected to each other, and to the planet we live on. That’s why Totem is proud to support the work of organizations like the L’hen Awtxw Weaving House, and the Wildlife Rescue rehabilitation centre.
Whether it’s looking out for our environment, or using traditional techniques over mass production, we share our partners’ belief in taking the time to take care of the things that matter.
L’hen Awtxw
(The Weaving House)
Hereditary Chief Chepxmiya Siyam (Janice George) and her husband Skwetsimeltxw (Willard “Buddy” Joseph) founded their studio L’hen Awtxw (The Weaving House) on the Capilano Indian Reservation on Vancouver’s North Shore in 2004.
Chief George graduated from Capilano University and the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe New Mexico. Joseph, a descendent of renowned weaver Harriette Johnnie, was the Director of the Squamish Housing and Capital Projects and continues to work as a consultant for First Nations Communities.
Both George and Joseph are weavers, educators, have ceremonial responsibilities in their community and have been instrumental in keeping their culture and craft alive. From her youth Chief George was drawn to the beautiful robes she saw worn by her ancestors in archival photos dating back more than 100 years. Recognizing that traditional Salish weaving was becoming a lost craft, George and Joseph were determined to breathe new life into it.
In 2003 George and Joseph met the teachers who would help them realize their dream and began classes in Washington State with master weavers Susan Pavel and Subiyay-t, Bruce Miller of Skokomish.
Over the fourteen years since their studio opened, they and their students have passed on this beautiful craft, using hand made looms and ancient weaving techniques, to over 2500 people. Their generosity and willingness to share their knowledge has kept them constantly busy and engaged in the work they love and are dedicated to.
When you see the Salish weavings in person you will appreciate the magnitude of the work and the love and spirituality that go into each piece. The revival of indigenous weaving throughout North America is vital to the culture and community of Native American and First Nations Peoples.
In 2017, Chief George, Joseph and Leslie Tepper released their book, Salish Blankets, Robes of Protection and Transformation, Symbols of Wealth. The book is available at both www.amazon.com and www.amazon.ca.
You might also like to visit Chief George and Buddy Joseph’s website www.weavinghouse.com to see first -hand the work they are doing in the community and at their studio.
