Eagle Down Blessing

Eagle Down Blessing     16x16 acrylic

My daughter and I attended a NorthWest Coast first nations feast a couple of years ago. This painting is based on a photo of one of the dancers. When she danced the eagle down placed in the top of her headdress would drift around. Lovely.

They're Back! --Cowichan Sweaters

Cowichan sweaters were the rage back in the 1970's and '80s. I worked mine up in White Buffalo wool which carried many popular patterns. White Buffalo sweaters were "in the Cowichan style sweaters". They satisfied the knitters need to make the popular item but they are far removed from the original item. I want to make another one and I am desperately searching for the article "A royal Pair, Knit the Cowichans that Charles and Diana wear" circa 1981-2 Canadian Living Magazine. They carried a lovely pullover pattern that I would like to get my hands on. (There is one shown on the Ravelry.com website, but it is alas, missing crucial information.) If you can help me out, please email or leave a comment.

There is no thing like the real deal though. The Coast Salish women developed the concept of the cowichan sweater and still create remarkable sweaters to this day. There is a great documentary:  http://www.onf-nfb.gc.ca/eng/collection/film/?id=33968
The story of the Coast Salish Knitters

 Sylvia Olsen has written a wonderful book "Working with Wool" which also tells the tale of the fabulous sweaters.

I want to make a sweater similar to this--

Check out the fashion fun at Visible Monday:  http://notdeadyetstyle.blogspot.ca/2012/06/visible-monday-49-visible-in-black-and.html#disqus_thread

Bill Reid Gallery

Button blanket.
I had to check out the Bill Reid Gallery while I was in Vancouver. He is so amazing. The Northwest Coast Indians had such a terrific artistic culture and still do. This is a painted canvas vest and a purse.