California Native Plants – Contemporary & Traditional Utilitarian Uses

Craig Torres (Tongva) is a member of the Traditional Council of Pimuu and involved with the Ti’aat Society, an organization focused on the revival of the traditional maritime culture of the Southern California coastal region and Southern Channel Islands. He is an artist, as well as a cultural educator, presenter and consultant to schools, culture and nature centers, museums, and city, state and government agencies acting as a consultant on the Tongva. He has also been involved with the organizations Preserving Our Heritage and Chia Café, which provide cooking demos and classes with California native plants. These activities also provide education on the importance of preserving native plants, habitats and landscapes for future generations.

Abe Sanchez is active in the revival and preservation of indigenous arts and foods, with specialties in Southern California Native American basketry and California and Southwest native foods. He has worked with traditional Native American gatherers to learn methods and practices. Abe believes that by teaching people about ancient natural foods and preparations, he can help them make a difference in their health and the environment.

Starla Madrigal (Cahuilla and Luiseno) is from the Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians. At an early age she learned basket weaving from her parents and elders. She enjoys basket weaving, cooking traditional foods, learning her language, making pottery, and Bird dancing. Her passion for traditional plant uses lead her to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Botany. She currently teaches traditional plant uses and basket weaving to her local communities. She believes in the importance of passing on cultural knowledge to Native communities and youth.

Includes, materials, food, field trip

Notebook
Pen/pencil
Dollar Store binder/folder for handouts
Comfortable closed-toed shoes for walking

Each day, your workshop starts at 9 am. Lunch is served from 12 pm to 1 pm. Workshops all recommence at 1 pm and wrap up at 4 pm. Dinner is served from 5 pm to 7 pm. NOTE: Some instructors allow for after-hour work sessions. If the instructor(s) is/are willing and present in the classroom, you can work on your pieces after 4 pm.

1) Native American Community Members, Leaders, Artists, and Teachers

For adults 18 and older with current tribal affiliation, the scholarship brings community leaders, artists, members, and teachers to workshops at Idyllwild Arts to benefit both the scholarship recipient and those in their schools or tribal communities. Applicants with financial needs may receive priority. We also offer scholarships for Native American Teens for both the Summer Program and the Academy.

Click here for more information about adult scholarships.