Spring 2011 Classes

MAPOM is offering three classes in the spring in conjunction with the Point Reyes National Seashore Association (PRNSA):

ANCIENT ART OF FRICTION FIREMAKING
Sunday, June 5 9AM - 4PM
Obtaining the knowledge of how to make fire by friction was a critical step in human evolution. It is also an essential part of ancient living and wilderness survival. Create fire by friction with your hands by using a hand drill firemaking kit and tinder bundle that you will make from local native materials. Both hand drill and bow drill techniques will be explored and you will have ample opportunity to practice making fire. Time permitting, we will try other firemaking techniques and discuss fire building and uses of fire.

Instructor: Tamara Wilder $80 ($60 for PRNSA members) plus $15 materials fee paid to the instructor on the day of the class

 

---

CALIFORNIA NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL HISTORY
Sunday,July 10 9AM - 4PM
This class will offer an opportunity for families to learn more about the culture, crafts and history of the California Native Peoples who have lived here for thousands of years. The day will include a presentation of a variety of indigenous artifacts, an appreciation for traditional storytelling, hands on craft-making involving everyone, a general overview of pre-historic and contemporary Native culture, as well as environmental lessons we might learn from Native practices. 

Instructor: John Littleton $80 ($60 for PRNSA members)

 

---

THE ANCIENT ART OF NATIVE BASKETRY
Saturday & Sunday, May 21-22 9AM - 4PM (each day)
Using a rush (Juncus effusus) commonly found in Bay Area freshwater wetlands, we will make close-twined baskets with overlay patterns of beargrass and died rush, similar to those made by Indians of western Oregon. Patterns can also be introduced by varying the weave employed, and crossing warps. Beginners and experienced weavers are welcome. This unique traditional basketry class will be held at the Kule Loklo village in Bear Valley

Instructor: Charles Kennard $200 ($180 for PRNSA members)

---

The Point Reyes National Seashore Association offers many field sping and summer seminars in addition to the above. You can learn more at their website, www.ptreyes.org.