The Evergreen Longhouse and Louie Gong (Nooksack) partnered again to create this “Honoring Friendships” wool blanket design to celebrate the Longhouse’s 25th anniversary. Corresponding with Eighth Generation’s inaugural wool blanket Thunderbird Arrives, this new blanket design honors the connections of the Native and Indigenous peoples of the mainland and Pacific Rim.
Rich in meaning, the elements in the blanket represent Indigenous peoples gathering together in strength and friendship. The designs recall artworks found around the Longhouse Indigenous Arts Campus and The Evergreen State College.
The multi-cultural artworks found around The Evergreen State College campus that served as inspiration for the blanket design include:
- Elements from the Welcome Woman by Greg Colfax (Makah) and Bunni Peterson Haitwas (Skokomish)
- the Toroa (albatross) by Henare Tahuri ( Tūhoe/Ngāti Kaungunu ki Wairoa) and Tāwera Tahuri (Ngā Ariki Kaipūtahi, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Uenuku, Tūwharetoa )
- Salish Fingers pattern by Bunni Peterson Haitwas (Skokomish)
- Double wall basket by Karen Reed (Puyallup and Chinook)
On the border of the blanket, the X's represents the stitches found in both Northwest and South Pacific designs that hold us together. The floral pattern represents renewal and growth in many cultures, and is found in beadwork designs from the Plateau and Great Lakes regions.
The design also incorporates a Salish weaving pattern known as Salish fingers to represent the Salish territory where the Longhouse is located. Finally, the albatross bird at the center - also known as Toroa or the Guardian - served as a nautical guide to Māori Ancestors.
Whether you use this blanket for yourself or as a way to show your gratitude for a dear friend or loved one, we hope the Honoring Friendships wool blanket brings you serenity.
- 2-sided design
- Covers top of Queen Size bed (59 in x 78 in/ 200 cm x 150 cm)
- Colors include purple, tan and Aegean blue
- Microsuede Edge Band
- 100% wool pile; 100% polyester warp
- Designed by Louie Gong (Nooksack)
- Imported
- Dry Clean
Thank you for supporting Inspired Natives™, not Native-inspired. #inspirednatives
5% of all blanket sales support the Inspired Natives™ Award for emerging arts entrepreneurs.
Product Care:
- Recommended care is Dry Clean Only. However, you can rinse your blanket on a gentle, cold setting. Hang dry away from direct sunlight.
- Clean liquid stains immediately with warm water and mild detergent.
- Never use harsh chemicals or scrub wool.
- Store blanket away from direct sunlight.
