Indigenous Technology: Spindle Whorls
by Digital Field TripsExplore the spindle whorl as an important Indigenous tool and technology practised by First Nations’ peoples in what is now known as British Columbia. While sharing and discussing the spindle whorl and weaving techniques, RBCM’s Indigenous Learning Program Developer will highlight three to four weaving techniques practiced by BC First Nations’ artists with visual support of objects, images and video.
Digital Field Trips are inquiry based and staff led. We can adapt Digital Field Trips for different grade ranges, home learners, or for adult, senior, community-group or post-secondary audiences.
Visit our website for more information.
These Playlists include additional resources that accompany these Digital Field Trips. They are continuously being updated, so please check before and after your program for new resources.
Look over this vocabulary list as an introduction or summary of the program.
Pictures and drawings of First Peoples fishing technologies
Curator of Archaeology Grant Keddie explains microblade technology. Find article
here.
Find Pathways and other content
here that have a First Peoples, Indigenous Peoples theme.
Archaeology tells us that Indigenous people have been here a very long time. Evidence such as artifacts, house remains and animal bones are held in the Royal BC Museum collection.
View Pathway
First Peoples Histories and Timeline in BC
In the summer of 2019, the Royal British Columbia Museum held the first iteration of the Indigenous Summer Arts Studio. This program was a revitalization of a previous carving studio that operated in Thunderbird park from 1952 to 2008. Each week showcased different featured artists and media, such as beadwork, carving, painting and cedar weaving.
The Indigenous Summer Arts Studio provided a space for Indigenous artists to learn from one another and share their work, talents and cultures with the public. Providing these opportunities for cultural exchanges was the core of this program.
Due to COVID-19, we were unable to host this program in subsequent summers. However, we have continued to find opportunities to share these artists’ talents.
In the summer of 2021, we began filming interviews and demonstrations with previous artist participants. Videos covered topics such as Métis beadwork, native plants, drum-making and more. While we know nothing can replace face-to-face interactions and conversations with artists, these videos will help you learn from Indigenous artists in new ways.
We hope that as you view these
videos and learn from a number of past participants of the Indigenous Summer Arts Studio, you will gain a greater understanding of Indigenous culture as you witness it thriving today.
Join Steven Davies as he discusses how learning about First Nations technology and innovation enriches our knowledge of the land we live on.
