Melody Williams. Photo coutesy of the artist.

Melody Williams

Melody holding a canoe basket made by her grandmother Della Campbell. Photo by Buffie Schmidt.

Melody Williams of Arcata, began her weaving journey at 22, learning from her grandmother, Della Campbell. She later reconnected with traditional basket weaving through her aunt, Christine Hamilton, who taught gathering and weaving techniques at tribal centers. Under Christine’s mentorship, Melody developed a deep connection to weaving baby baskets and preserving her family’s cultural traditions. Now mentoring her great-niece, Kayla Lowell, Melody is focused on teaching the techniques of coiling and open twine weaving, as well as the traditional ecological knowledge required to gather and prepare materials like willow, sedge, and redbud. 


Apprenticeship Program

Kayla Lowell. Photo courtesy of the artist.
2024

Pomo Basketry with apprentice Kayla Lowell

Melody Williams (Pomo) great aunt to, Kayla Lowell (Pomo) will be passing down traditional ecological knowledge while teaching the specific weaving techniques of the coil and open twine basket that have been traditionally passed down from generation to generation in their family.

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Announcing the 2024 Taproot Fellows!