NNABA -- History

History:

The mission of the Northwest Native American Basketweavers Association is: To Preserve, Promote, and Perpetuate the traditional and contemporary art of Northwest Native American Basketry.

The non-profit corporation is registered in the State of Washington and maintains its federal status as a 501(c)(3) organization.

NNABA serves traditional and contemporary native basketweavers of the Pacific Northwest region through its annual Gatherings, member outreach programs and regional networking.

NNABA is served by a nine-member Board of Directors made up entirely of Native American basketweavers.

The art of basketweaving includes a wide variety of styles, materials, uses, and special techniques. The Northwest Native American Basketweavers Association (NNABA) was established in 1996 as a non-profit organization, gathered together to preserve, promote, and perpetuate the traditional and contemporary art of Northwest Native American basketry. The Basketweavers represent Native American Tribes from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia.

Every October in Northwest regional locations NNABA hosts an annual Gathering honoring traditional and contemporary weavers from its membership of 600 weavers. At most Gatherings as many as 100 professional weavers and apprentice weavers (including children) may be present. As part of the Gathering, a public art market and demonstration day celebrate and attract an additional 500 visitors who enjoy the indigenous basketry and related fiber arts. NNABA is the only organization of its type in the Pacific Northwest.

Thanks to the efforts of a few Elders and members of the Basketweavers Association, more recognition, respect, and interest is being shown to this beautiful form of art. Many of the Basketweaver Association founders have been practicing basketweaving since childhood. In some cases, this is over seventy years.

To share in our annual Gatherings, please visit our Events page for point of contacts and additional information.