Basketry Demonstration & Conversation with Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk)
Basketry Demonstration & Conversation with Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk)
January 10, 2026 from 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Join Mewuk basket weaver Jennifer Bates for a special basketry demonstration and conversation exploring the artistry, techniques, and traditions of California Native basketmaking. Jennifer will share her personal practice, discuss the plants and materials used in traditional basketry, and walk audiences through key steps of gathering, cleaning, splitting, and preparing materials. Enjoy an up-close look at her artistry, learn the difference between twined and coiled techniques, and take part in a lively Q&A.
As part of this program, attendees are also invited to explore OMCA’s new exhibition Good Fire: Tending Native Lands, which highlights Indigenous knowledge, cultural burning, and stewardship practices across California.
This program is a part of our exhibition programming for Good Fire: Tending Native Lands on view at OMCA from November 7, 2025, through May 31, 2026. This program is designed for people aged 12 and up; there is limited capacity and tickets are required.
About Jennifer Bates
Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk) is a traditional Mewuk basket weaver and cultural consultant with nearly 50 years of experience preserving and teaching Central California Native arts. A founding board member and former long-standing chair of the California Indian Basketweavers Association, she has represented California’s basketry traditions at institutions such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian and curated numerous exhibitions across the state. Jennifer’s work spans cultural education, arts leadership, and community advocacy, and she continues to share her deep knowledge through workshops, demonstrations, and public presentations.
Accessibility
Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is committed to providing programs that are accessible, welcoming, and inclusive of our community. Wheelchairs, sensory inclusive devices, and additional amenities are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis at the Ticketing Desk. To request other accommodations, like American Sign Language (ASL), Cantonese, Spanish or another language interpreter, please email [email protected] at least three weeks before the event. Learn more about our accessibility options.