Vanessa Kelley - Smts'aalda Hana'a in the Artist Studio
Date & Time
Friday, November 6, 2026
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
This event is in the past.
Tickets
Included with admission;
FREE for Burke members
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From Vanessa Kelley:
I am learning & weaving in Gwishalaayt (in English Chilkat) on material that not only one of my mentors spun, but that I also prepped the cedar and thigh-spun myself (merino wool & cedar thigh-spun together). I am weaving on a loom my stepdad made for me (stainless steel & aluminum). I drafted the design I am weaving during the first weeks of my apprenticeship with Ursula Hudson through Goldbelt Heritage. This piece is called, in English, Spider Weaves Raven's Story. In Sm'algyax (the traditional language of the Tsimshian people) Sigwishalaayt Ksm Sgyet Gaxgm Malsk. This apprenticeship came about in a few fun ways. I will be painting on canvases taped together, which my fellow cohort members will later ceremonially cut as a gift for sharing this experience in December.
About the Artist
Tsimshian weaving artist, Northwest Coast Formline student, and Sm’algyax speaker, Smts’aalda Hana’a - Guard Woman, Vanessa Kelley, has been honing her skills in woolen fiber arts and Northwest Coast Formline knowledge while also creating cedar works. At heart, Vanessa embodies the idea that cultural knowledge is wealth.
Vanessa’s profound passion for weaving encourages her to pursue further education, mentors, and connections to extend her revitalization of cultural traditions in weaving, initially from only cedar weaving to Ravenstail and Gwishalaayt weaving, which deeply ties into the Northwest Coast Formline. Her art pathway works with a community because it takes a community to craft in her culture.
Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok @ravens_quest_weaving
