Ann Smith | The children teach us how to be good teachers
Ann Smith short film from SAGAFISH MEDIA on Vimeo.
Watch this short film about renowned ravenstail weaver, former chief, respected elder and great-grandmother Ann Smith. A member of Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ann is one of the busiest people in her community. Her schedule is determined by the activities of 11 grandchildren and a slate of volunteer commitments. Ann steals hours to sit at her loom, where she weaves ravenstail dancing blankets. A fine craft revived after being lost for a century, Ravenstail weaving is painstakingly slow. Regalia created by Ann are held in collections and galleries around the world.
Ann’s husband Brian Walker is a master copper artist. Their community has seen more than its share of tragedy, and Ann and Brian use traditional craft, ceremony and reconnecting with the past to offer support. They live next to the Yukon River near downtown Whitehorse.