The summer issue of American Indian, the member’s publication of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, highlights Theresa Secord (Penobscot) on page 32. They include a photo of her and of her great-grandmother and teacher, Philomene Nelson. Theresa was a founder of the Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance. In the article, she makes the point that it is important that these artistic skills be passed on. She also talks about the connection between language and art in the culture. Theresa would make a great speaker – one whose knowledge and insights should be documented. You can download a podcast of her keynote address to the Grantmakers In Arts and learn about her other accomplishments.
Check it out – if you can afford to become a member of the Museum, do so ($25). Perhaps one day they will offer Maine baskets as the holiday gift “bargain.”
2 responses so far ↓
1
Ta'pit Slagger
// May 29, 2008 at 3:59 am
I thought that theresa was from the Penobscot Nation ? Is she still involved with the basket makers alliance ? I thought that she was the director ? She used to be involved with the basket makers show at the unverstity in the winter…..that was always a good opportunity for the public to see & meet Wabanaki people. Wellalian, Ta’pit
2
Elizabeth Sky-McIlvain
// May 29, 2008 at 10:34 am
Yes – you are right – Theresa is a Penobscot and I apologize – I fixed that info in the original post and added a link to some more information about her.
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