Introductory Basketry Workshop with Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk)
Introductory Basketry Workshop with Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk)
January 10 from 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
In this introductory workshop, led by Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk) and her apprentice, Jeannette Innerarity (Ione Band of Miwok), attendees will explore basketry materials, learn foundational techniques, and be guided through weaving a basket base. All materials will be provided. This intimate workshop emphasizes close instruction, cultural context, and an opportunity to learn directly from two experienced weavers.
This workshop 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 workshop is designed for people aged 12 and up; capacity is very limited, 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.
About Jeannete Innerarity
Jeannette Innerarity is Northern Sierra Miwok and a citizen of the Ione Band of Miwok Indians. Jeanette honors those who came before her by actively prioritizing and embodying Miwok knowledges and ways of being, including basketweaving with her mentor Jennifer Bates (Northern Sierra Mewuk), learning and implementing Miwok language, participation in traditional food gathering and preparation as well as crafting traditional Miwok regalia, game sets and acorn cooking implements.
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.