Crafters congregate at downtown friendship centre

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The 14th annual North American Native Arts and Craft Festival was once again a huge success with artists travelling from across British Columbia to participate. Held at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre on Hastings Street, the Dec. 14 and 15 event was packed with artists, crafters, singers and dancers. Said founder and organizer Kat Norris, "I couldn't fit everyone in this year."

There were 44 tables with a range of innovative work, from stained glass and silver to wood carvings and feathers; from Musqueum dried and smoked fish to Cowichan Indian sweaters. "Such beautiful craftsmanship. I couldn't get over how intricate and innovative our artists are," said Norris. "Booth after booth of contemporary and traditional stylings put me in complete awe of how far North American Native artwork has come."

In the Chief Simon Baker Room, Metis fiddlers and dancing and singing groups performed, and musicians entertained throughout the weekend.

Fifteen years ago Norris recognized a need for a crafters' venue. "The high-end gold, silver and wood carvers had the Indian Arts and Craft Society's show held at the Hyatt each year, so I decided I would organize a show and invite beaders, weavers and such," she said, adding, "It was such a great success and everyone had so much fun that I decided to do it again."

Although the festival requires a lot of organization to come together, Norris said she's very thankful for all she's learned. "Every year I learn something new - it's a wonderful atmosphere."

Norris explained that because of the quantity of crafters that want in the festival each year, next year they will hold a juried show. Artists and crafters will be asked to submit photos of their work to be considered for the show, which will once again be held during the second weekend of December.