"Native Crafts Demonstrated"

The native arts of leather crafts, bead stringing and pottery making were the lessons of the day last Tuesday for the grade 5 and 6 students at Parkview Public School in Hagersville.

The students had the opportunity of learning various forms of Indian art from three local Six Nations Reserve craftsmen.

Delma Hill of R.R. 6, Hagersville discussed the art of leather crafts and had on display a wide range of handmade articles such as dresses. moccasins, purses, head-bands and belts made of moose-hide, deer skin and cow hide. Mrs. Hill has over sixteen years of experience with her profit-making hobby.

In another classroom, Ruth Skye, R.R. 6 Hagersville, was using her 21 years of experience in bead stringing to instruct the youngsters in making beaded rings, necklaces, bracelets, barettes and earrings.

Pottery making was the third craft which students were involved in. Anne Scott of R.R. 1 Wilsonville a 15 year craftsman, was teaching the pupils the art of pottery. Individuals were each given a slab of clay to design whatever they desired. The finished work was then fired in the school kiln and later glazed.

Parkview principal Ron Speer said the exercise exposed students to local crafts and skills that they normally might not get the opportunity to view.

"It introduced some of Canada's native culture to the students, something they probably don't know enough about, but should because of the area's close ties with the native people," he said.

He added that it also provides an opportunity for the community to become involved with young people, which is refreshing for both pupil and teacher.