Rowena Mora | Jicarilla Apache Cultural Arts & Heritage

What was Rowena Mora's experience with her culture during her upbringing?

• She was fully immersed in her culture from a young age.

• She learned about her culture in boarding school.

• She didn't know much about her culture until later in life.

• Her family actively taught her cultural practices throughout her childhood.

How did Rowena Mora begin learning the art of Jicarilla basket weaving?

• She was taught by her mother and grandmothers at home.

• She started learning it after returning to Dulce and working at the Cultural Resource.

• She learned it during her time living in Albuquerque.

• She was self-taught by observing old baskets.

When does Rowena Mora prefer to collect materials for her baskets?

• During the summer months when plants are in full bloom.

• In late fall after the first snow, extending to early spring.

• Only in early spring before new growth appears.

• Throughout the year, whenever materials are available.

What is a key step in preparing sumac sticks for basket weaving that differs from preparing willow sticks?

• Sumac sticks are boiled to remove their bark, unlike willow.

• Sumac sticks are split into two or three pieces, while willow sticks are used whole.

• The middle part of sumac sticks is gutted, and the bark is left on to dry.

• Sumac sticks are always dyed, whereas willow sticks are often left natural.

How did the speaker acquire the cherished basket from her family?

• She bought it from a collector in California.

• Her great-grandmother gave it directly to her.

• Her mother received it back from a lady in California and then gave it to her.

• She found it abandoned at a riverbed.

What is the speaker's philosophy regarding gathering materials for basket weaving?

• She buys all her materials from specialized craft stores.

• She gathers materials from Mother Earth, ensuring no waste, and prays before gathering.

• She only uses materials that are easy to find and require no preparation.

• She relies on others to gather and prepare materials for her.

Why is sumac difficult to find for basket weaving in the speaker's local area?

• It only grows in remote, inaccessible locations.

• It is a rare plant that is almost extinct.

• Cows tend to eat the sumac before weavers can gather it.

• The river has dried up, making it impossible for sumac to grow.

What motivated the speaker to start teaching basket weaving classes?

• She wanted to earn extra income from her craft.

• She was inspired by the bright colors and patterns of old baskets.

• She learned that basket weaving had died out in another reservation and wanted to prevent that from happening in her community.

• She needed help gathering materials for her own baskets.

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What personal benefits does the speaker associate with the act of basket weaving?

• Financial gain and recognition

• Improved physical strength and dexterity

• Mental peace, connection to nature, and spiritual well-being

• Social interaction and community building