Traditional Wolastoqey Birch Bark Canoe Build & Launch

This learning opportunity guided participants of all ages through the traditional methods of harvesting birch bark, cedar wood, spruce root and gum, and bear grease used for canoe construction. Participants experienced the sophisticated methods that make these lightweight yet durable watercraft so remarkable and how Indigenous knowledge systems have created vessels perfectly adapted to the waterways of the Maritime region.

Under One Sky has been honored to host Shane Perley-Dutcher, a distinguished Wolastoqiyik artist from the Neqotkuk community as an artist in residence, providing an exceptional cultural learning experience. This residency has offered urban Indigenous participants a rare opportunity to learn the time-honored tradition of constructing a traditional Wolastoqey birch bark canoe.

As part of Under One Sky’s ongoing Wabanaki Land Based Program Shane brought both artistic expertise and deep cultural knowledge to this hands-on educational experience. Participants gained insight into the meticulous craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations of Wolastoqiyik people, learning not only the practical techniques of canoe construction but also understanding the cultural significance and spiritual connection that these vessels represent within Indigenous traditions.

Beyond the technical aspects of construction, this experience offered valuable cultural exchange and learning. Participants gained a deeper appreciation for Wolastoqiyik traditions, craftsmanship, and the sustainable practices that have been integral to Indigenous communities for countless generations but are in danger of being lost. This residency represented an important opportunity to preserve and share traditional knowledge while fostering greater understanding and respect for Indigenous culture and heritage.

This beautiful traditional Wolastoqey birch bark canoe will not only be used by participants of the Wabanaki Land Based Program but also displayed at Under One Sky’s new Centre on Main Street in late 2026.

This project was funded by TD Bank’s Ready Commitment Program: Connected Communities that aims to support arts and culture events, initiatives, and organizations across North America that amplify diverse voices and provide professional development opportunities for emerging artists facing barriers to the arts sector.