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Nature's Palette: Weaving Culture with Dyes
23 Aug
Summary
- Master weaver uses natural dyes from plants and mushrooms.
- Weaving connects culture, land, and personal energy.
- Climate change impacts berry harvesting windows for dyes.
Master weaver Myrna Crossley, a resident of the Tsartlip reserve for 35 years, draws inspiration from the land and her Lək̓ʷəŋən heritage for her unique weaving practice. She meticulously creates her own natural dyes, utilizing a variety of plants such as nettle, arbutus, and cedar, alongside mushrooms like dead man's foot.
Crossley's recent large-scale works include a 12-foot by five-foot piece displayed at the University of Victoria and other pieces at the Chicago Museum. Her creations are intended to reflect a deep connection to the land and the cultural importance of blankets within her community.
Recent climate shifts have impacted Crossley's ability to gather materials, specifically noting missed opportunities for salal berries due to unpredictable weather patterns. These environmental changes affect the traditional gathering windows for her natural dye sourcing.
Weaving is described as Crossley's sanctuary, a practice passed down through generations, connecting her to her ancestors and cultural governance. Her current work involves replicating ancestral blankets woven with Salish woolly dog and mountain goat hair.
