CULTURAL LIVING
Weavers Alice, Dawn, Tasha and Raeann For generations, basket weavers were an important part of a household. They wove the essential tools for gathering, transporting and storing food. They were also a critical part of some traditions like the wine ceremony, where they used to gather and store cactus fruit while it fermented. Traditionally, baskets were woven by women. Young women would present their pieces during the basket dance, sharing their talent, hard work and patience with the community. Unfortunately, for two generations, 14 SPRING 2023
the art of basket weaving was nearly lost. However, there are women in the community, and some men, who are bringing the tradition back to life. Alice Manuel is one of them. Her interest in baskets, and later weaving, began at an early age. “I remember that my father’s mother had four or five baskets on top of her fridge,” recalled Alice. “Though I never touched them, they intrigued me.” Baskets were a rare sight because back then, the culture was to burn all belongings when someone passed
