A special relationship was established between the Puyallup School District and the Samish Tribe of Indians in 2008. Since that time, elders and tribal members have assisted district staff in the identification of basket origins, repatriation of NAGPRA-related artifacts, and the creation of exhibits which accurately portray Coastal Salish culture.
In April, 2015 district staff members had the honor of returning several artifacts to the tribe – a gesture which was welcomed with great ceremony and enduring appreciation.
This past spring, the Karshner Museum and Center for Culture & Arts received a new collection of Coastal Salish art created by contemporary artists of the Samish Tribe. Baskets, boxes, oars, and decorative panels are now on display. We are grateful for the new art installation and the many new artifacts. We are honored by the lasting friendship and mutually respectful relationship we have with Samish elders and tribal members.
We are pleased to host Samish carver and artist, William Bailey, on Friday, September 25, 2015. Several members of the Samish Tribe will accompany Mr. Bailey to the Karshner Center to see the installation of their artwork for the first time.
The public is invited to meet the artist from 11:00 a.m. to noon on September 25th.
The Samish artwork will remain on display for the entire 2015-16 school year. The painted panels are a permanent installation at the Karshner Center.
We hope you will come visit soon!
From Under The Cupola 