Rebecca Doctor, a participant in a northern Indigenous art initiative, shares how the program deepened her connection to her heritage through traditional craftsmanship. She is among eight individuals marking their completion of the Northern Indigenous Art Certificate program, a collaboration between Yellowknives Dene First Nation’s Dechı̨ta Nàowo and Portage College in Lac La Biche, Alberta.
The program, designed to provide post-secondary credits for traditional arts education, culminated in a graduation ceremony at Yellowknife’s Tree of Peace. Doctor, originally from Alberta, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rediscover her cultural arts and roots.
One of Doctor’s standout projects was crafting a parka, a labor-intensive endeavor that she found both enjoyable and perfectly fitting. Another graduate, Henry Ben Martin, praised the course for inspiring him with new artistic perspectives and techniques, particularly highlighting the challenge and success of creating a bracelet.
Margaret Erasmus, the director of Dechı̨ta Nàowo, emphasized the importance of incorporating a Northern focus into the program in partnership with Portage College. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in traditional arts education for young individuals within the Yellowknives Dene First Nation community.
Erasmus commended the students for their dedication and expressed satisfaction in witnessing their pride and happiness in showcasing their language and cultural heritage through their creations. Graduates of the program have the opportunity to further their studies at Portage College, where additional traditional arts courses are offered to continue nurturing their skills and passion.
The success of the program underscores its role in breaking down educational barriers and providing avenues for individuals to pursue their artistic aspirations.