Last month, tribal Elder Ramona Peters held a three-day traditional pottery class sponsored by the Native Land Conservancy. The all-women's class had Mashpee and Aquinnah participants, and with Ramona's guidance, each participant created a traditional eastern woodlands-style pot.

Session one served as an introduction to the process. Students were shown traditional shapes, familiarized themselves with the clay, began rolling coils, and built the female section (base) of their vessel.

During session two, the women continued building the base, creating the neck, and building the male section (crown/top). The third and final session was where shaping was completed, and design features were added.

The women noted how much they all enjoyed the experience and opportunity to learn from one of Mashpee's finest artists. Tribal member Trish Keliinui stated "Personally, I've been inspired by each of [the women] on my journey working with the clay. Now viewing the table of pottery creations, it is wonderful seeing the uniqueness of each piece...rather reflective of us".

Special thanks to Ramona Peters and the Native Land Conservancy for making this possible!