Bernadine Phillips

 Bernadine Phillips is a Master Basketweaver from Omak WA, a member of the Colville Confederated Tribes (Wenatchi/Methow/Okanogan Bands). Both her mother and father encouraged and supported her interest in her culture and traditional arts such as beading and basketweaving.  

Bernadine learned how to make coiled cedar root baskets from Master Basketweaver Elaine Timentwa Emerson who told her, “You just have to keep at it. Making one basket does not make you a basketweaver. “ Not only has she continued weaving and teaching basket classes along with her sister Vera Best, she also began teaching her basketry students what materials, when and where to gather materials, and to gather so no harm comes to the trees or plants.  

“I wanted my children to learn how to make the baskets, gather the basket materials and most important not be afraid to use the baskets. The baskets and materials are just an everyday part of their lives now.”  

Bernadine’s family are all skilled artists. Her husband, Brian is a carver and flute maker, her son Craig is a master weaver at twined sally bags, and daughter Bridgit, prefers beadwork, can also do coiled baskets and twining.  

Bernadine has been Recognized by the Smithsonian Institute as a Folklife Festival Presenter in the “Carriers of Culture: Living Native Basket Traditions” at Washington DC in 2006.