Friday, January 2, 7pm ring in the new year at Imagine Studios @ the People’s Cafe’, 64 Purchase St. Newburyport, United Methodist Church. Imagine Studios 1st Friday open mic. welcomes music, poetry, comedy, stand up, stories and more. All ages welcome. Full PA, amps and drum kit available for use. Coffee and refreshments. Sign up in person begins at 6:30, Peoples United Methodist Church. 64 Purchase St. Newburyport Info: Imagine Studios; kristine@imaginestudios.orgInfo: www.imaginestudios.org, FB, kristine@imaginestudios.org
Join us Friday December 5, 7pm and give peace a chance, at Imagine Studios open mic. night of peace and protest music! Share a song in the key of peace @ The People’s Cafe’!
PAST EVENTS
Thanks to all who joined us at Newburyport City Hall for the Native American Heritage Month Flag Raising Ceremony! Let’s come together to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, honor the voices and cultures of Indigenous peoples, and continue working toward a more inclusive community. 
A great day for democracy and unity!
We’ll be joined by:
Larry Spotted Crow Mann (Hassanamisco Nipmuc) from Ohketeau Cultural Center
Sarah (Small Turtle) Levenson (Mi’kmaq)
Chickie Red Dawn Imalda Dobson (Mi’kmaq)
State Representative Dawne Shand
…and others TBA!
Thanks to all who made Newburyport’s 5th annual Indigenous People’s Day a huge success on many levels. Visit our event page and fb for photos, videos and more. See below for a video of the maiden voyage of the Merrimack Mishoon! Thanks to Port media for capturing the entire event on video!
Imagine Studios 1st Friday Community Open Mics and 3rd Friday Drum Circles have resumed! Please check facebook for updates!
October 4th Fundraising Feast with Celebrity Wampanoag Chef Sherry Pocknett, tickets on sale now!
volunteer opportunities
Please make a tax deductible contribution: PayPal;Venmo:@ImagineStudiosOrg; Go Fund Me
This free, family-friendly outdoor gathering celebrates traditional and contemporary Indigenous cultural arts, knowledge and diversity, honoring our region’s Indigenous communities and all Native Peoples, and supports recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day at the city, state and national level. We welcome community participation to support this event, including Indigenous and allied partners, sponsors, volunteers, educators, students, and others to join us!
This year’s Indigenous cultural presenters, musicians and artisans include: Lonecry Singers; Hawk Henries; Jonathan Perry; Darius and Toodie Coombs; Roger Paul; Nicholas Paul, Pauochau Nohkunnawai Waupi, and family drum/dance/song; Larry Spotted Crow Mann; Jason Pardilla; Sarah Small Turtle; Daniela Currie-Gutierrez; Jenny Tibbits; Lonewolf Studio; Joseph Gray Sculpture and others.
This year’s event highlights Indigenous maritime cultural arts traditions in the Dawnland, including the creation, ceremonial launch and paddle of a traditional hand crafted muhsh8n (dugout canoe) made by Darius Coombs and Jonathan James Perry and an ákʷitən (birch bark canoe) made by Jason Pardilla on the Merrimack River! See below and check FB for updated schedule and more information!
Imagine Studios is honored and pleased to be a 2025 grant recipient of the New England Foundation for the Arts “Public Art for Spatial Justice” initiative, for “The Merrimack Mishoon Project!”
Merrimack Mishoon Project has launched! Stay tuned for public muhsh8n making events and the inaugural paddle, Saturday, October 11th at Newburyport’s 5th Indigenous People’s Day!
Tickets on sale soon for a fundraising feast with celebrity Wampanoag (James Beard Award WinnER) Chef Sherry Pocknett, Saturday, October 4 @ CHMM !!
Imagine Studios is honored and pleased to be a 2025 grant recipient of the NEFA “Public Art for Spatial Justice” initiative, for “The Merrimack Mishoon Project” with Darius Coombs (Mashpee Wampanoag) and Jonathan Perry-Aquinnah Wampanoag Artist. Learn More: https://www.nefa.org/…/imagine-studios-darius-coombs…
These master artists will make a muhsh8n at Newburyport’s waterfront this fall, culminating in a ceremonial launch and paddle on the Merrimack River, Saturday, October 11th, at Newburyport’s 5th Annual Indigenous Peoples Day event, waterfront park!
This initiative honors Indigenous maritime traditions engaging Indigenous apprentices in the process. This celebrates cultural craftsmanship, educates and engages the community in Indigenous maritime history on the Merrimack River, and includes public demonstrations and educational programs at Newburyport’s Waterfront Park, and at partner organizations: Custom House Maritime Museum Newburyport and Lowell’s Boat Shop. Thanks also to the Newburyport Cultural Council for supporting this project!
“This year’s PASJ grantees embody the urgency and potential of art in our communities,” said NEFA executive director Harold Steward. “From honoring Indigenous boat-making traditions to projects celebrating Black military history and immigrant stories, these projects stand as powerful examples of how artists help us imagine and build justice now and more just futures. This work continues through our partnership with the Barr Foundation, who understands the power of public art for healing, connection, and justice.”
“In this moment, we need artists to cultivate more inclusive spaces for reflection and resistance,” said Giles Li, Barr Foundation’s senior program officer for Arts & Creativity. “We are honored and proud to support the crucial resources that NEFA’s Public Art for Spatial Justice program offers to diverse artists across the region, who do the complicated work of helping us dream of and shape a better future.”
Schedule of Public Muhsh8n Making and Cultural Programs @ Custom House Maritime Museum and Newburyport Waterfront Park
9/14 placement of canoe and start of public mishoon making/burning
9/19-22 public mishoon making
9/20 public mishoon making and CHMM youth programs, 10-1pm
9/22 public mishoon making
9/26-29 public mishoon making
9/27 public mishoon making and CHMM youth programs, 10-1pm
10/3 public mishoon making and Newburyport high school Global Classroom field trip
10/3, 6:30pm free 1st Friday cultural program @ CHMM with Darius Coombs, Jonathan James Perry and mishoon maker apprentices
10/4 public mishoon making and Fundraising feast with celebrity, James Beard Award Winning Wampanoag Chef Sherry Pocknett! Tickets available soon @ CHMM
10/5 public mishoon making
10/11 Newburyport’s 5th Annual Indigenous People’s Day event and mishoon launch!
10/13 Event and mishoon launch rain date
Donate via PayPal; Venmo: @ImagineStudiosOrg; Go Fund Me
Imagine Studios open mic. night for poetry, comedy, stand up, stories and more! All ages welcome. Full PA, amps and drum kit available for use. Coffee and refreshments. Sign up in person begins at 6:30. @ the People’s Cafe’, 64 Purchase St. Newburyport, Peoples United Methodist Church. Info: facebook, kristine@imaginestudios.org
Thanks to all who participated and contributed to April’s Earth Day Celebrations!
Saturday April 19, 11:00 – 3:00pm Newburyport Market Square, FREE Family Event! ACES (Alliance of Climate and Environmental Stewards) EVENT: “MAKE EVERY DAY EARTH DAY ….. Do Your Part Locally Every Day”
Join Imagine Studios and a coalition of regional environmental organizations and individuals who are thinking globally and acting locally: featuring Meg Rayne, Singer-Songwriter-Activist; Jenny Warfield, Abenaki naturalist and musician, plus youth presenters, speakers and more!
Saturday April 26, 6pm: Imagine Studios 4th Annual One World Earth Day Concert, Drum and Dance Party! @ The People’s Cafe’ 64 Purchase St. Newburyport. Mamadou Band: www.mamadou.com & Wangari Fahari: www.faharirecords.com
Also drop in 1-5pm, to the People’s Cafe’ for FREE jazz and bluegrass jams. Plus Earth Day eco action info, world crafts, and more!
Tickets at the door. FB. Contact: 978-834-0367 kristine@imaginestudios.org
Thanks to Participating Organizations- Alliance of Climate and Environmental Stewards, Small Solutions Big Ideas, C-10, Small Solutions Big Ideas, A3DInc.
Thanks to Sponsors- Ganesh Imports, The Dance Place, The Regenerative School, Tim’s Treats, Hillside Sustainable Living
MAMADOU: www.mamadou.com, is a world-class ensemble showcasing original music by Senegalese luminary Mamadou Diop. Mamadou introduced his signature rhythm guitar sound around the world, sharing the stage and playing with countless African greats including Baaba Maal, Mamadou Jimi Mbaye and Mbaye Dieye Faye in the Madison Band (formerly of Youssou Ndour), Thione Seck, Nicolas Menheim and Papa Seck in the band Africando, the Grand Soda Mama, and many more. His award-winning band performs original songs of peace, love, hope, family and friendship, bringing a positive vibe to our world!
Kenyan singer, writer, activist Wangari Fahari and Paul Thibeault: https://www.faharirecords.com/, are a dynamic duo that cascades through three languages taking you in and beyond African skies. Wangari has been featured on many world stages with mentors such as Miriam Makeba, Joan Baez and Remi Kabaka she has the effortless ability to bridge cultures and accompany transcendence through the art of song. We look forward to a soulful time with you!
We are grateful for your charitable donations to celebrate Imagine Studios’ 26th year as a nonprofit community organization dedicated to fostering and promoting peace building and cultural diversity through the performing, visual and healing arts, locally and globally. Thanks for your contribution to keep community cultural arts alive in these changing times!
Donate via PayPal or Venmo
Past events…
Join us Friday December 6, 7pm to give peace a chance, at Imagine Studios open mic. tribute to John Lennon night! Share a Lennon song or an original, in the key of peace! 1st Friday open mics for music, poetry, comedy, stand up, stories and more. All ages welcome. Full PA, amps and drum kit available for use. Coffee and refreshments. Sign up in person begins at 6:30. @ the People’s Cafe’, 64 Purchase St. Newburyport, Peoples United Methodist Church. Info: facebook, kristine@imaginestudios.org
Friday, November 8, 9am join us to commemorate and celebrate Native American Heritage month @ Newburyport City Hall, 60 Pleasant St.! Flag raising ceremonies and remarks with Larry Spotted Crow Mann, Todd Warfield, intertribal reps, Mayor Sean Reardon, city and state officials and local students, followed by refreshments and community reflections at the Unitarian Universalist Church 26 Pleasant St. For more info: FB, kristine@imaginestudios.org
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, participated, donated or supported Newburyport’s 4th Annual Indigenous People’s Day in any way! This year’s event was a great success on many levels, building and strengthening relationships and partnerships between Indigenous and community members and organizations, while learning and allying together to commemorate and celebrate Indigenous People’s Day!
Although we faced challenges of weather, we were greatly warmed by everyone’s sunny smiles, camaraderie and passionate presentations!! Thanks to you we were able to raise invaluable awareness and support for regional Indigenous participants, organizations and advocacy issues. Please visit FB to see photos
Join us for Newburyport’s 4th Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Observance and cultural celebration, Monday October 14th, 10-5, at Newburyport Waterfront Park! For program info see below or FB. Contact: kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367
This free, family-friendly outdoor gathering celebrates traditional and contemporary Indigenous cultural arts, knowledge and diversity, honoring our region’s Indigenous communities and all Native Peoples, and supports recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day at the city, state and national level. We welcome community participation to support this event, including Indigenous and allied partners, sponsors, volunteers, educators, students, and others to join us!
This year’s Indigenous cultural presenters and artisans include: Lonecry Singers; Hawk Henries; Jonathan Perry; Darius and Toodie Coombs; Roger Paul; Larry Spotted Crow Mann; Wolf Cry Singers; Lonewolf Studio; Joseph Gray Sculpture and others. See below and FB for a complete schedule and information!
Due to uncertain weather and conditions the mishoon launch and paddle is postponed.
To make a charitable donation to this nonprofit event: Venmo- @ImagineStudiosOrg; Go Fund Me
Thanks to our community partner organizations for their support!: Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness; City of Newburyport Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance; Custom House Maritime Museum; Merrohawke Nature School; Unity on the River; Bank Prov, Little Compton Historical Society.
Thanks also to our sponsors!: The Regenerative School, Heartwood Nature School, First Religious Society Unitarian Universalist Newburyport, Terezin: Children of the Holocaust, Janco Publishing, Amesbury Industrial Supply, Seas the Day Realty, Ottos Pizza, Gould Insurance, The Clark Currier Inn, Fairfield Marriot Amesbury, Seacoast Cabinet, Port Signworks, Flatbread Pizza, Metzy’s Cantina, Lowell’s Boat Shop, Plum Island Kayak, Elite Printing, Joseph Gray Sculpture, Lani Shumway Photography, Ruebenfilmz and others.
“This program is supported in part by grants from the Mass Cultural Council.” Thanks to the following Local Cultural Councils: Newburyport, Amesbury, Salisbury, West Newbury, Newbury, Merrimac, Rowley, Georgetown, Boxford.
10-10:30am: Opening Ceremonies: Join intertribal Indigenous representatives, Jonathan Perry, Darius Coombs, Roger Paul, Hawk Henries, Larry Spotted Crow Mann, Tim Sock and others, along with community leaders and state officials for a special opening ceremony and fire circle. Due to uncertain weather and conditions the mishoon launch and paddle is postponed.
10:45-11:45am: Hawk Henries– Flute Concert. Hawk is an artist, composer, and flute musician (Chaubunagungamaug band of Nipmuc). He expertly crafts Eastern Woodlands flutes through ancestral and contemporary techniques. His transformative performances create contemplative spaces for unity and meaningful reflection on how we each have the capacity to make change in the world. Through music, discussion, and a note of humor, he weaves a calm, engaging, and thought-provoking experience.
Hawk has had the honor of presenting at venues such as The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Harvard Medical School Graduation, and in the U.K. with the London Mozart Players.He also enjoys educational settings from kindergarten to university and small venues where he can engage the audience in dialogue. As a seasoned flute maker, Hawk has flutes all over the world and in several museums. He has three original CD’s; First Flight, Keeping the Fire and Voices. He is also featured on the compilation CD Tribal Winds. His music has been used in a variety of films and documentaries, some of which won or were nominated for Emmy awards. Hawk is featured in the 2022 Reciprocity Project film Weckuwapok (The Approaching Dawn). To learn more about Hawk visit his website or Facebook Hawk Henries Flute Maker/Musician
11:45pm- Local Youth Spoken Word Reflections
12pm– Lonecry Drummers and Dancers with Tim Sock– Mi’kmaq first nation drum group, will share drum songs and participatory dances. Based out of Charlottetown and Scotchfort, Prince Edward Island, Canada, they share and produce traditional music. Lonecry has performed all over the East Coast from Atlantic Canada to Quebec and Ontario as well as New England.
Tim Sock, founder of Lonecry is a knowledge keeper in his community of Abegweit First Nation, PEI, Canada, as well a pipe carrier, drum keeper and drum maker as well other cultural teachings. He works for the Canadian Government in Indigenous Service Canada 🇨🇦 (ISC) with First Nation Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) as a Senior Program Officer in Mental Health directorate.
1-1:30pm- Roger Paul Wabanaki Cultural Educator– Born on the Motahkomikuk Indian reservation near Princeton, Maine to a Passamaquoddy mother and a Maliseet father, Roger Paul grew up speaking both languages and began learning English around the age of five. Living on various reservations in Maine and New Brunswick during his childhood, he attended Catholic schools, as well as public schools off the reservation. After touring the world with the U.S. Marine Corps, he earned his Bachelors degree in Sociology at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. It was during this time he realized the public’s lack of understanding and connection to the indigenous peoples of Maine and New Brunswick. As such, he chose to educate anyone who would want to learn about the Wabanaki Peoples of Turtle Island and their vital role in the communities in which they are ever-present.
Roger has done work for; the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, the Houlton Band of Maliseets, Tobique First Nation in Canada, his home tribe of Passamaquoddy, and is presently working as a teacher with the Penobscot Nation and the University of Maine at Orono. His work history mirrors his background from being cultural director, teacher, counselor, story teller, and consultant, in which he takes an active role towards the preservation of culture and educating people on the importance of realizing the significance of indigenous peoples in Maine and New Brunswick. A mihtaqs (father) of three and a muhssumss (grandfather) of five, Roger works diligently to share and ensure the continuing growth and prosperity of the Wabanaki language and culture. Roger is featured in the 2022 Reciprocity Project film Weckuwapok (The Approaching Dawn). He is also a co-Director of the Upstander Project Teacher’s Academy.
1:30pm- Larry Spotted Crow Mann Family/Children’s Program– Larry is an Award Winning Writer -Playwright -Poet-Native American Cultural Educator Traditional Storyteller -Tribal Drummer/Dancer – Motivational Speaker -Consultant on Indigenous Pedagogy. The legends he shares will awaken all your senses and inspire your imagination though lessons and laughter. These ancient tales will bring you intimately closer to the Nipmuc People of long ago and demonstrate how the Tribe of today remains connected to their heritage.
Larry is co-director of the Ohketeau Cultural Center and Founder of the Native Youth Empowerment Foundation. Another very important part of Mann’s work has been advocating for drug and alcohol prevention In Native American Teens. This is certainly an issue for all youth but by far Native American teens have one of the highest rates of drug and alcohol problems which has lead to staggering levels of teen suicide. Mann, along with other Native American leaders worked in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to create a booklet as a resource for the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse. Wunnanumaonk ( A blessing to share)- Now more than ever, We must come together as One people & One World. The most precious thing that we have is each other. In these difficult times, I want to share my thoughts of Healing & Blessings to all of you. Please take care of yourselves and each other- Larry Spotted Crow Mann.
2:15pm- Jonathan James Perry Mishoon Dugout Canoe Presentation– Join us for this talk and historic launch of a traditional mishoon dugout canoe by master builder Jonathan Perry. Jonathan is a traditional singer, dancer, speaker and carver, grounded in the traditions of his ocean-going ancestors. He considers designs by examining the raw materials closely, and draws his images from the grain, hues, and patina of wood, stone and copper. Jonathan enjoys using the materials and knowledge handed down from his ancestors to express his understanding of the natural world as well as the changes over time since Creation. His mentors, like the late Nanepashemet (Tony Pollard) of the Wampanoag Nation, have taught him to observe and take special care when handling these materials, and breathing life into his pieces of art. Jonathan’s work embodies the refined quality of those of his ancestors, while still drawing upon his experience in a contemporary society. His pieces reflect balance within the Natural World, incorporating stories, effigies, and symbology of Wampanoag traditions.
Jonathan is influenced by his ancestors and his time spent on the ocean, something very close to him, being from an island Native community. Jonathan continues to use the materials and knowledge handed down from his ancestors to express his understanding of the Natural World and the change that it has experienced in the past four hundred years. Jonathan’s three dimensional artwork ranges in size from large, hand-carved dugout ocean vessels, to stone effigy pipes and high-end copper jewelry.
An articulate and thoughtful speaker, Jonathan has lectured on the topics of Eastern Woodland art and traditions for over 25 years at both regional and national venues and his performing arts career has spanned over 30 years. These venues have included the Peabody Essex Museum, the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center, Harvard College and Brown U.
2:45 Wolf Cry Singers- Woman’s Hand Drum Group originally from Massachusetts, performing traditional and contemporary songs sung in various Native languages as well as in English to share with communities we belong to and those we travel to. We have performed at pow wows throughout New England, and at ceremonies and
cultural events promoting Native American awareness. Our mission is to keep the spirit and languages alive through our music and connection as women to each other and All Our Relations. Member Gloria Freeman will also offer a demonstration of finger weaving.
1-4pm Wampum and Corn Husk Doll Making Workshops-Darius Coombs (Cultural Outreach Coordinator for the Mashpee Wampanoag Education Department) will teach you how to create your own wampum pendant. Wampum has always been very special in Wampanoag Culture. Now you can create your wampum pendant by using a traditional pump drill and then stringing with some colorful pony beads.
Darius is a Mashpee Wampanoag tribal citizen and is the Cultural Outreach Coordinator for the Mashpee Wampanoag Education Department. He is the former Director of the Wampanoag Indigenous Program at Plimoth/ Patuxet Museums for over 30 years. Over his career Darius has worked with Smithsonian, History Channel, National Geographic, and Scholastic to name a few. His teaching of Wampanoag and other Indigenous cultures in the history of the northeast is recognized throughout the country. He has presented at conferences, colleges, historical societies, museums, indigenous institutes, and all grades and levels of learning in North America. Darius is the recipient of the 2016 NEMA (New England Museum Association) Award for Excellence and the 2021 Bay State Legacy ward.
Eleanor ”Toodie” Coombs Mashpee Wampanoag tribal citizen will teach how to create corn husk dolls. Deer skin dolls and corn husk dolls have always been part Wampanoag material culture for thousands of years and kids of all ages enjoy creating and playing with them.
3:30pm- Lonecry Drummers and Dancers
Other presentations, artisans and activities throughout the day
Sculptor Joseph Gray– Don’t miss a special sculpture exhibition by Joseph Gray, who has been working with stone for four decades, creating pieces using the ancient, hands-on technique of hammer and chisel. As part Abenaki, Gray believes his Native American background plays a key role in his art. “It connects me with the earth and nature… When I am carving an ancestor or spirit animal, I do not know what I am carving when I start. I can feel my ancestors guiding me. It is a spiritual experience for me and I lose myself in every sculpture.” “I believe I will make an impact on the world with my stone sculpture. A smile and a warming of one’s soul is my goal as a sculptor.” – Joseph Gray
See photos of Gray’s sculpture above, “Harboring Thoughts,” carved for the city of Newburyport, designed to be placed along the Merrimack river, on the clipper city heritage trail. The mother seal and the baby seal represent the Newburyport community, family, and our connection to nature, along the Merrimack. For a complete catalogue.
Sarah Small Turtle (Lennox island Mi’kmaq), and Daniela Currie-Gutierrez– Will offer a family art and cultural craft table throughout the day.
Lonewolf Studio, Lenny and Kelly Novak- featuring hand crafted artisan antler Dreamcatchers, and one of a kind Sterling Silver, Copper, and many other mediums Jewelry. Much of our art is Antler, and Necklaces and Earrings of all kinds, we also do gourds, hide covered Baskets, Bone and Horn chokers, Bracelets.
Divine Paradigm, Artwork by Christina Mariah– One of a kind handmade artisan items for body, mind and spirit.
Robert Goodby, Hands on Archaeology Artifact Learning Table and Talk. Bob is a professor of Anthropology at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge. He holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from Brown University and has spent more than thirty years studying Native American archaeological sites in New England. He works collaboratively with present day Abenaki communities. He is a past president of the New Hampshire Archeological Society, a former Trustee of the Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner, and served on the New Hampshire Commission on Native American Affairs. In 2010, he directed the excavations of four 12,000-year-old Paleoindian dwellings at the Tenant Swamp site in Keene, and his book A Deep Presence: 13,000 Years of Native American History, was published in 2021 by Peter E. Randall Publisher.
Abenaki history has been reduced to near-invisibility as a result of conquest, a conquering culture that placed little value on the Indian experience, and a strategy of self-preservation that required many Abenaki to go “underground,” concealing their true identities for generations to avoid discrimination and persecution. Bob Goodby reveals archaeological evidence that shows their deep presence here.
Mishoon dugout canoe launched at Mystic Connecticut by Jonathan Perry, Darius Coombs and crew. Don’t miss the launch of a mishoon on the Merrimack River, oct 14th!
Joseph Gray Sculpture Newburyport Waterfront Park Clipper City Trail
Imagine Studios Ongoing Programs-
Imagine Studios One World Earth Day Concert, Drum and Dance Party! Saturday, April 20, 7pm @ The People’s Cafe’ 64 Purchase St. Newburyport, featuring:
Afro-Pop Mamadou Band: www.mamadou.com;
Wangari Fahari: www.faharirecords.com
Tickets at the door. Contact Info: www.imaginestudios.org kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367
Also drop in 1-5pm, to the People’s Cafe’ for FREE jazz and bluegrass jams. Plus Earth Day eco action info, world crafts, and more!
Thanks to participating organizations Small Solutions Big ideas, A3D Inc, C-10, Earthport Film Fest, Newburyport Time Trade Network, and others. Sponsors Ganesh Imports, The Natural Grocer, Hillside Sustainable Living, The Dance Place, Ottos Pizza.
MAMADOU: www.mamadou.com, is a world-class ensemble showcasing original music by Senegalese luminary Mamadou Diop. Mamadou introduced his signature rhythm guitar sound around the world, sharing the stage and playing with countless African greats including Baaba Maal, Mamadou Jimi Mbaye and Mbaye Dieye Faye in the Madison Band (formerly of Youssou Ndour), Thione Seck, Nicolas Menheim and Papa Seck in the band Africando, the Grand Soda Mama, and many more. His award-winning band performs original songs of peace, love, hope, family and friendship, bringing a positive vibe to our world!
Kenyan singer, writer, activist Wangari Fahari and Paul Thibeault: https://www.faharirecords.com/, are a dynamic duo that cascades through three languages taking you in and beyond African skies. Wangari has been featured on many world stages with mentors such as Miriam Makeba, Joan Baez and Remi Kabaka she has the effortless ability to bridge cultures and accompany transcendence through the art of song. We look forward to a soulful time with you!
More upcoming events…
April 19 Drum circle is cancelled because of drum circle Saturday April 20 with Mamadou
March 30, 7:30pm, the much anticipated Tommyknockerz CD Release Party with Lucky Leroux and special guests Luke Parkin, Bert Snow, Lynne Taylor, Charlie Rockwood, Meg Rayne and more! Listen. Tickets at the door. More Info: Facebook, kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367
Imagine Studios Co-Founder Lucky Leroux aka Lucian Parkin is a singer-songwriter-poet-philosopher who blends diverse musical styles and genres, from acoustic troubadour ballads to soulful jazz, blues and electric folk-rock.
More upcoming events –
Join Imagine Studios annual Earth Day Drum and Dance Party and Eco Event, Saturday, April 20, 7pm featuring The Mamadou Band, and Wangari Fahari @ The People’s Cafe’
Sunday April 21, Imagine Studios joins ACES for an Earth Day event in Newburyport’s Market Square, 12-3pm. featuring eco action info, speakers, music and family activities.
Friday March 1, 7pm Imagine Studios open mic. features Reg Bacon, veteran hot jazz tenor banjoist, guitarist, vocalist — and circus/vaudevillian emeritus — who will play a handful of fun-and-snappy tunes on an array of vintage instruments. As a historian of early 20th-century popular music and entertainment, he is the author of more than a dozen books, including the most recent, hot off the press, Jazzin’ On 4 Strings: Hot Jazz in Chicago Tuning, published by Variety Arts Press- https://www.varietyartspress.com/JazzinOn4Strings.html
Imagine Studios celebrates 25 years of community cultural programming in 2023! Thank you for so many great memories and supporting our 25th year end fundraiser- $2,500, for our ongoing work and mission…
Imagine Studios is a 501c3 nonprofit community organization, dedicated to fostering and promoting peace building and cultural diversity through the performing, visual and healing arts, locally and globally.
Current projects include: Performing arts performances, music and cultural events, monthly open mics and drum circles, documentary film screenings, and community-based programs, building bridges in partnership with other regional nonprofit organizations.
Please make your nonprofit charitable donation today through Paypal or Venmo: @ImagineStudiosOrg
We are grateful for your support, and look forward to many more years of cultural programs! See below for upcoming events and follow us on facebook, Contact Info: kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367
Past events…
Join Us, In Honoring National Native American Heritage Month and more cultural events!
Friday, November 3, 9-9:30am, all are invited to Newburyport City Hall for a public, outdoor flag raising ceremony with Mayor Sean Reardon, local officials, Indigenous representatives and students.
Thursday, November 16, 7pm, Upstander Project Emmy Award winning documentary film Dawnland and Bounty at the Screening Room, State St. Newburyport. Moderated Q&A discussion to follow screening. Profits benefit Wabanaki REACH and MA Center for Native American Awareness.
Tickets can be reserved in advance or at the door. More information Contact: kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367, FB
This nonprofit event is presented by Imagine Studios and The Regenerative School
PAST EVENTS…
Thank you to all who made Newburyport’s 3rd Annual Indigenous People’s Day a wonderful celebration!
Due to inclement weather, Newburyport’s 3rd Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Event, is rescheduled for Sunday, October 8, 10am-5pm, at the downtown waterfront park! This free family-friendly outdoor gathering celebrates traditional and contemporary Indigenous cultural arts, knowledge and diversity, honoring all Native Peoples, and supports recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day at the city, state and national level.
Opening circle and ceremonies start at 10am, followed by music, drumming, dance, cultural presentations, artisans, advocacy, hands-on workshops and more. See below for a schedule and list of presenters.
Imagine Studios is pleased to be partnering with Newburyport Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alliance, city leaders, schools, organizations, businesses and individuals to commemorate Indigenous Peoples Day. We are grateful to our community sponsors and partners (please see poster below). We welcome community participation to support this event, including Indigenous and allied partners, sponsors, volunteers, educators, students, and others to join us! Please email: kristine@imaginestudios.org or call 978-834-0367 to get involved and learn more. Waterfront park is a short walk from all downtown metered lots or garage.
Thank you for considering making a charitable donation to this nonprofit, volunteer event: https://gofund.me/af1ab6c5
Special thanks to our community partner, Newburyport DEI Alliance
10am- Opening Ceremonies: All are welcome to join regional Indigenous representatives and city leaders for opening remarks, drum, dance and song at the fire circle.
Roger Paul, Nicholas Paul (Passamaquoddy from Motahmikuk, Indian Township, Maine and Wolastoqiyik, Maliseet, From Tobique First Nations in New Brunswick Canada, and Pauochau Nohkunnawai Waupi, “She who dances on night winds,” Narrangansett From Rhode Island and Peqout from Connecticut- Will be joined by their children, Sipsis (lil bird) 19, Hiawatha (Keeper of the forest) 18, and Tihtiyas (Blue Jay) 8, and granddaughter Mauseck Wequai (Great Light) 1. This family has travelled to pow wows across the United States and Canada and have competed in different dance styles and drumming. They have also traveled to showcase and teach about their culture through various dances and singing, social and pow wow style. “As a family we still follow traditions and teachings that have been passed down to us from our elders and the ones who have gone before us. We hope to pass these same teachings on to younger generations.”
11:30 Onega Waya White Wolf- (Tsalagi Cherokee) Drummer, dancer, storyteller, artist, and educator will be leading participatory community dancing, drumming, storytelling and cultural activities. White Wolf was VP of the “Red Road Foundation”, from 2005 through 2008, which was an educational non profit organization in NH that provided programs in schools throughout New England. He taught pre-American history, cultural history, and provided programs in grade levels from grammar school through college, as well as public venues and retirement homes.
White Wolf is Lakota taught for decades, having grown up out west. He also was a member of the Keetoowah Society in NYC, a tribally recognized Cherokee group who performed traditional ceremonies in upstate NY. He was also a member of Hayna Second Sons Powwow Drum group who performed throughout NYC and was host drum for Queen’s Farm Powwow in Forrest Hills, Queen’s NY. He is a Pipe Carrier in both Lakota and Cherokee traditions and is a Northern Plains Traditional Dancer in the Powwow community.
12- Willow Greene (Missisquoi Abenaki) Storyteller will share traditional Abenaki stories. For over 30 years Willow has presented in schools, colleges and museums throughout New England and New York.
12:30– Roger Paul- Born on the Motahkomikuk Indian reservation near Princeton, Maine to a Passamaquoddy mother and a Maliseet father, Roger Paul grew up speaking both languages and began learning English around the age of five. Living on various reservations in Maine and New Brunswick during his childhood, he attended Catholic schools, as well as public schools off the reservation. After touring the world with the U.S. Marine Corps, he earned his Bachelors degree in Sociology at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. It was during this time he realized the public’s lack of understanding and connection to the indigenous peoples of Maine and New Brunswick. As such, he chose to educate anyone who would want to learn about the Wabanaki Peoples of Turtle Island and their vital role in the communities in which they are ever-present. Roger has done work for; the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, the Houlton Band of Maliseets, Tobique First Nation in Canada, his home tribe of Passamaquoddy, and is presently working as a teacher with the Penobscot Nation and the University of Maine at Orono. His work history mirrors his background from being cultural director, teacher, counselor, story teller, and consultant, in which he takes an active role towards the preservation of culture and educating people on the importance of realizing the significance of indigenous peoples in Maine and New Brunswick. A mihtaqs (father) of three and a muhssumss (grandfather) of five, Roger works diligently to share and ensure the continuing growth and prosperity of the Wabanaki language and culture. Roger is featured in the 2022 Reciprocity Project film Weckuwapok (The Approaching Dawn)
https://www.reciprocity.org/films/weckuwapok also a faculty member of the Upstander Project Teacher’s Academy: https://upstanderproject.org/learn/upstander-academy
1-4- Wampum and Corn Husk Doll Making Workshops- Darius Coombs (Cultural Outreach Coordinator for the Mashpee Wampanoag Education Department) will teach you how to create your own wampum pendant. Wampum has always been very special in Wampanoag Culture. Now you can create your wampum pendant by using a a traditional pump drill and then stringing with some colorful pony beads. Come join Mashpee Wampanoag tribal citizen Eleanor ”Toodie” Coombs on creating your own corn husk doll. Deer skin dolls and corn husk dolls have always been part Wampanoag material culture for thousands of years and kids of all ages enjoy creating and playing with them.
Darius Coombs (Mashpee Wampanoag)- is a proud father of 4 girls and has been married to his loving wife Toodie for close to 20 years. He is also a Mashpee Wampanoag tribal citizen and is the Cultural Outreach Coordinator for the Mashpee Wampanoag Education Department. Darius is the former Director of the Wampanoag Indigenous Program at Plimoth/ Patuxet Museums for over 30 years. Over his career Darius has worked with Smithsonian, History Channel, National Geographic, and Scholastic to name a few. His teaching of Wampanoag and other Indigenous cultures in the history of the northeast is recognized throughout the country. He has presented at conferences, colleges, historical societies, museums, indigenous institutes, and all grades and levels of learning in North America. Darius is also the recipient of the 2016 NEMA ( New England Museum Association) Award for Excellence and the 2021 Bay State Legacy ward. https://mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov/february-2021-mittark-blog/2021/2/1/darius-coombs-hired-as-new-cultural-amp-outreach-coordinator
1:00- Nadia Toth, Lila Coffey, and Aibhne Martino. Newburyport High School Poetry Soup will read poems by and inspired by Indigenous writers.
1:30- Dan Speers- Named Haverhill’s Poet Laureate by Mayor James J. Fiorentini, honoring the poet and Renaissance man. Prior to presenting Speers with the proclamation, Councilor Melinda E. Barrett listed some of his many accomplishments. “He’s a former journalist and columnist, managing editor of a daily newspaper, an author of numerous college and adult education textbooks. He’s also an award-winning novelist and poet.”
Speers, a member of Haverhill River Bards, is also chairperson of Haverhill’s Native American Task Force. Task Force members plan a project that “celebrates the history and heritage of the indigenous communities that lived, thrived and prospered in the pre-Columbian Merrimack Valley; provides accurate historical perspectives on what transpired and happened to these peoples on the arrival, disruption and colonization by Europeans; and inspires this and coming generations with the knowledge and confidence that while we are correcting and recognizing the inequities, stresses and sacrifices of the past, our goal is to foster cultural and ethnic unanimity.”
2:00- Willow Greene (Missisquoi Abenaki)- Storyteller Willow Greene will share traditional Abenaki stories. For over 30 years Willow has presented in schools, colleges and museums throughout New England and New York.
3- Nicholas Paul, Pauochau Nohkunnawai Waupi, and family drum/dance/song
Sarah Small Turtle, Melanie Currier (Rocking Cradle), Daniela Currie-Gutierrez and others- Will offer a family art and cultural craft table throughout the day.
Lonewolf Studio, Lenny and Kelly Novak- featuring hand crafted artisan antler Dreamcatchers, and one of a kind Sterling Silver, Copper, and many other mediums Jewelry. Much of our art is Antler, and Necklaces and Earrings of all kinds, we also do gourds, hide covered Baskets, Bone and Horn chokers, Bracelets:
Liz Greene Charlebois– Abenaki culture bearer, is a powwow dancer, traditional bead worker, ash basket maker, and bitten birch bark artist. She cultivates a traditional garden and has organized a seed bank of heirloom seeds grown by the Indigenous people of the Northeast. Liz has served on the New Hampshire Commission of Native American Affairs and as Education Specialist at the Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum in Warner, NH.
Divine Paradigm, Artwork by Christina Mariah– One of a kind handmade artisan items for body, mind and spirit.
Sculptor Joseph Gray- Don’t miss a special exhibition by Joseph Gray, who has been working with stone for four decades, creating pieces using the ancient, hands-on technique of hammer and chisel. As part Abenaki, Gray believes his Native American background plays a key role in his art. “It connects me with the earth and nature… When I am carving an ancestor or spirit animal, I do not know what I am carving when I start. I can feel my ancestors guiding me. It is a spiritual experience for me and I lose myself in every sculpture.” “I believe I will make an impact on the world with my stone sculpture. A smile and a warming of one’s soul is my goal as a sculptor.” – Joseph Gray
See photos of Gray’s sculpture above, “Harboring Thoughts,” carved for the city of Newburyport, designed to be placed along the Merrimack river, on the clipper city heritage trail. The mother seal and the baby seal represent the Newburyport community, family, and our connection to nature, along the Merrimack. For a complete catalogue of his collection.
Claudia Fox Tree (Iukaieke Guainia Taino-Arawak)- Board Member MA Center for Native American Awareness. Professional educator and social justice activist Claudia Fox Tree, M.Ed. Facilitates courses and workshops on having difficult conversations about diversity and anti-racism. In decolonizing equity conversations, she centers present Indigenous experiences and inclusive history in what is now known as North and South America. Her presentations center on marginalized Native American identities and missing contributions while dismantling stereotypes and historical inaccuracies. She asks allies and co-conspirators to come on the journey with her. Claudia will address assumptions that perpetuate stereotypes and myths, expand ideas about “American history,” and explore the role of language. The journey of developing a counter narrative to missing information and misinformation about the First Nations people of this land begins with un-erasing Indigenous voices, learning what we were not taught, and continuing to have those conversations with families and friends.
Since 1998, Claudia has been a Massachusetts liaison for the United Confederation of Taino People, headquartered in New York. UCTP (http://uctp.blogspot.com/) spans the Greater and Lesser Antilles and the United States and beyond. The UCTP is dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions of the Taíno and other Caribbean Indigenous Peoples for present and future generations and endeavors to assist its citizens in their social, economic, and educational, cultural, and spiritual development. Claudia is a tribal member of the Iukaieke Guainia Taino-Arawak Tribal Community.
Since 2000, Claudia has been on the Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness board. MCNAA’s mission is to preserve Native American cultural traditions; to assist Native American residents with basic needs and educational expenses; to advance public knowledge and understanding, to dispel inaccurate information about Native People, and work towards racial equality by addressing racial issues inequities across the region. Claudia is also a faculty member of the Upstander Project Teacher’s Academy: https://upstanderproject.org/learn/upstander-academy
In 2022, Claudia was awarded a Citation from The Massachusetts House of Representatives for “scholarship, activism, and tireless work to give voice to the experiences of Indigenous and Native American People.” In 2022, Claudia was honored by Ad Club for creating a more equitable Boston as a “Mentoring Champion” on their Equity Project Honor Roll. Website: Arawak Design (Crafting Business) Blogs: First Nations’ People (FNP) Resources and Multicultural Resources Social Media: Facebook
Wolf Cry Singers- Woman’s Hand Drum Group originally from Massachusetts, performing traditional and contemporary songs sung in various Native languages as well as in English to share with communities we belong to and those we travel to. We have performed at pow wows throughout New England, and at ceremonies and
cultural events promoting Native American awareness. Our mission is to keep the spirit and languages alive through our music and connection as women to each other and All Our Relations. Member Gloria Freeman will also offer a demonstration of finger weaving.
Seth J. Willey– Storyteller and drummer lives in Amesbury, MA where he facilitates drum circles to bring mother earth’s heartbeat to the community. He shares stories and songs for all ages so they will not be forgotten.
Robert Whitehead, Mt. Kearsarge Museum educator– Will present a table of Indigenous cultural artifacts throughout the day, from the collections of the Mt Kearsarge Indian Museum. https://www.indianmuseum.org/
See below for more upcoming and past cultural events presented by Imagine Studios
Past events…
Please join us for a special performance of Terezin, Children of the Holocaust, by acclaimed Playwright, Director and Humanitarian, Anna Smulowitz.
Monday, May 15th at 7:00PM at the Firehouse Center for the Arts in Newburyport, MA. Tickets $20 adults, $12 Seniors & Students: www.firehouse.org, 978-462-7336. More Information: www.terezin.org
Following the performance join the director, and cast for a community discussion addressing the rise in anti-Semitism, hate speech and crimes.
Terezin, depicts a day in the life of six children imprisoned in Camp Theresienstadt (also known as Terezin) in the Czech Republic. The camp imprisoned many thousands of European Jews, including over 15,000 children during the Nazi era. Each of the six characters is a symbolic representation of the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust.
The play takes place during the Holocaust, but it also explores the contemporary consequences of hate, the vital power of every individual voice, and the need for a stronger sense of social responsibility in our lives. It is a portrait of the irrepressible power of hope and the triumph of spirit in the heart of a child.
The play has toured schools, colleges, churches, synagogues, and theaters as a stage play throughout the United States and internationally continuously for more than fifty years, and has been translated into several languages. Terezin has also been performed off Broadway, at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, in Cuba, Panama, Germany, as well as at the Terezin concentration camp in the Czech Republic and at Auschwitz in Poland. Terezin received the 1984 Children’s Television Award and Edinburgh Fringe Festival – Outstanding Show Award, amongst others.
About the Playwright-
Anna Smulowitz, the daughter of survivors of Auschwitz & Buchenwald, was born in a displaced persons camp in Germany and, as a child, emigrated to the United States. For over 50 years, she has offered highly acclaimed theatrical productions, while encouraging young minds to explore their humanity and creativity through the art of drama.
Anna was recently conferred an honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism from the Global International Alliance for her lifelong dedication to education through the arts. She received the 2008 Leadership Award from the North Shore Anti-Defamation League, and was named The Model People Award from the Timberland Corporation, and the Global Citizen’s Circle Inhabiting Hope: Artivism Our Universal Language – Featured “Artist as Meaning Maker.”
RECENT EVENTS:
Thanks to all who made our Earth Day event a great success!
MAMADOU is a world-class Afro-Pop ensemble showcasing original music by Senegalese luminary Mamadou Diop. Mamadou introduced his signature rhythm guitar sound around the world, sharing the stage and playing with countless African greats including Baaba Maal, Mamadou Jimi Mbaye and Mbaye Dieye Faye in the Madison Band (formerly of Youssou Ndour), Thione Seck, Nicolas Menheim and Papa Seck in the band Africando, the Grand Soda Mama, and many more. His award-winning band performs original songs of peace, love, hope, family and friendship, bringing a positive vibe to our world!
Mamadou founded A3Dinc. nonprofit organization to address the economic, educational, environmental, and public health needs of African and other underserved culturally diverse populations and organizations in the Greater Boston and North Shore area and abroad.
Kenyan singer, writer, activist Wangari Fahari and Paul Thibeault are a dynamic duo that cascades through three languages taking you in and beyond African skies. Wangari has been featured on many world stages with mentors such as Miriam Makeba, Joan Baez and Remi Kabaka she has the effortless ability to bridge cultures and accompany transcendence through the art of song. We look forward to a soulful time with you!
Wangari loves making a difference in the world and has teamed up with philanthropic institutions such as The Global Peace Train, The American World Jewish Association, One World Children Fund and The Greenbelt movement. Raising funds and awareness for Child soldiers in Lira, Uganda as well as promoting Kenya’s wildlife conservation and Agro-forestry.
As director at Artists For Wildlife Conservation, she helped organize a fundraising concert featuring her music with Paul Simon’s bass player Bakithi Khumalo and Berklee College Of Music Professors Casey Scheuerell and Suzanne Dean in Brookline, MA. Raising thousands of dollars for endangered Rhino’s in Kenya and South Africa. For those who know Wangari they understand her big heart and undying love for nature and people.
Opening act singer-songwriter-guitarist and musical activist Lucky Leroux will perform original songs from his recent release Tommyknockerz!
Also check out African Drum Classes with master Senegalese drummer Mamadou Diop- Sundays, 5:30pm @ the Dance Place, Tannery, Water St. Newburyport. These classes offer traditional African rhythms in a supportive learning community on a drop in basis, $15/class. Drums provided or bring your own.
Thank you to all the participants, volunteers, sponsors and supporters of Newburyport’s 2nd Indigenous Peoples Day! For more information, visit: Facebook. To get involved or contribute to next year’s event, Contact: kristine@imaginestudios.org, 978-834-0367.
PAST EVENTS:
Schedule of Events:
10-11 AM: Opening ceremonies and fire circle– led by Paul and Denise Pouliot (Head Speakers of the Cowasuck band of the Pennacook Abenaki); Onega Waya White Wolf (Tsalagi Cherokee) participatory community ceremony, song, dance, drumming; Red Dawn (Mi’kmaq) and intertribal Participants; Newburyport Mayor Sean Reardon; Rev. Rebecca Bryan (First Religious Society Unitarian Universalist).
11:00: Main Stage- Paul and Denise Pouliot– Paul W. and Denise K. Pouliot are the Sag8mo and Sag8moskwa (Male and Female Head Speakers) of the Cowasuck Band of the Pennacook-Abenaki People that is headquartered in Alton, NH. Paul is an Indigenous historian, lecturer is a founding member of the New Hampshire Commission on Native American Affairs where Denise currently serves as Vice Chair; and in her spare time Denise creates coil, bark or woven baskets and produces traditional ceremonial clothing. Together they serve as Federal Religious Advisors, Affiliate Faculty members of the UNH Native American and Indigenous Studies Minor, are founding members of the Indigenous New Hampshire Collaborative Collective, and recipients of the UNH Platinum Sustainability Award for community building and also named as one of The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) 60 individuals and organizations that have positively impacted the natural world in honor of TNC’s 60 years of conservation in New Hampshire.
In addition to their Tribal responsibilities, they serve the greater community on several state and regional alliances that deal with race, equality, food insecurity, sustainability, education, climate change, social services, and justice related to marginalized and BIPOC communities. Paul and Denise helped to found the Indigenous NH Collaborative Collective.
In February 2022, Denise and Paul Pouliot collaborated with filmmaker Catherine Stewart to create Swimming Upstream: Indigenous Environmental Justice for Our Waterways. The short film featured historic and scientific information relating to the Great Bay Estuary, located on the seacoast of New Hampshire.
11:30: Onega Waya White Wolf- (Tsalagi Cherokee) Drummer, dancer, storyteller, artist, and educator will be leading participatory community ceremony and cultural activities. Bring your drums to participate!
White Wolf was VP of the “Red Road Foundation”, from 2005 through 2008, which was an educational non profit organization in NH that provided programs in schools throughout New England. He taught pre-American history, cultural history, and provided programs in grade levels from grammar school through college, as well as public venues and retirement homes.
White Wolf is Lakota taught for decades, having grown up out west. He also was a member of the Keetoowah Society in NYC, a tribally recognized Cherokee group who performed traditional ceremonies in upstate NY. He was also a member of Hayna Second Sons Powwow Drum group who performed throughout NYC and was host drum for Queen’s Farm Powwow in Forrest Hills, Queen’s NY. He is a Pipe Carrier in both Lakota and Cherokee traditions.
White Wolf is a Northern Plains Traditional Dancer in the realm of the Powwow community. This choice came from his years of immersion in the Plains traditions. As Fire keeper for the Inipi (Sweat Lodge) and pipe carrier.
12:00: Seth J. Willey– (Cherokee) Storyteller and drummer lives in Amesbury, MA where he facilitates drum circles to bring mother earth’s heartbeat to the community. He shares traditional stories and songs for all ages so they will not be forgotten.
12:15: Elementary student speakers- from River Valley Charter School reflect on Indigenous Peoples Day.
12:30: David Detmold– Speaker on Indigenous Peoples Day and MA State Seal initiatives
12:45: Hawk Henries (Chaubunagungamaug band of Nipmuc)- is an artist, composer, and flute musician. He expertly crafts Eastern Woodlands flutes through ancestral and contemporary techniques. His transformative performances create contemplative spaces for unity and meaningful reflection on how we each have the capacity to make change in the world. Through music, discussion, and a note of humor, he weaves a calm, engaging, and thought-provoking experience.
Hawk has had the honor of presenting at venues such as The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Harvard Medical School Graduation, and in the U.K. with the London Mozart Players. He also enjoys educational settings from kindergarten to university and small venues where he can engage the audience in dialogue. As a seasoned flute maker, Hawk has flutes all over the world and in several museums. He has three original CD’s; First Flight, Keeping the Fire and Voices. He is also featured on the compilation CD Tribal Winds. His music has been used in a variety of films and documentaries, some of which won or were nominated for Emmy awards. To learn more about Hawk visit his website or on Facebook Hawk Henries Flute Maker/Musician
1:30: Claudia Fox Tree– Board Member MA Center for Native American Awareness. Professional educator and social justice activist Claudia Fox Tree, M.Ed. Facilitates courses and workshops on having difficult conversations about diversity and anti-racism. In decolonizing equity conversations, she centers present Indigenous experiences and inclusive history in what is now known as North and South America. Her presentations center on marginalized Native American identities and missing contributions while dismantling stereotypes and historical inaccuracies. She asks allies and co-conspirators to come on the journey with her. Claudia will address assumptions that perpetuate stereotypes and myths, expand ideas about “American history,” and explore the role of language. The journey of developing a counter narrative to missing information and misinformation about the First Nations people of this land begins with un-erasing Indigenous voices, learning what we were not taught, and continuing to have those conversations with families and friends.
Since 2000, Claudia has been on the Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness board. MCNAA’s mission is to preserve Native American cultural traditions; to assist Native American residents with basic needs and educational expenses; to advance public knowledge and understanding, to dispel inaccurate information about Native People, and work towards racial equality by addressing racial issues inequities across the region.
Since 1998, Claudia has been a Massachusetts liaison for the United Confederation of Taino People, headquartered in New York. UCTP (http://uctp.blogspot.com/) spans the Greater and Lesser Antilles and the United States and beyond. The UCTP is dedicated to promoting and protecting the human rights, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions of the Taíno and other Caribbean Indigenous Peoples for present and future generations and endeavors to assist its citizens in their social, economic, and educational, cultural, and spiritual development. Claudia is a tribal member of the Iukaieke Guainia Taino-Arawak Tribal Community.
In 2022, Claudia was awarded a Citation from The Massachusetts House of Representatives for “scholarship, activism, and tireless work to give voice to the experiences of Indigenous and Native American People.” In 2022, Claudia was honored by Ad Club for creating a more equitable Boston as a “Mentoring Champion” on their Equity Project Honor Roll. Website: Arawak Design (Crafting Business) Blogs: First Nations’ People (FNP) Resources and Multicultural Resources Social Media: Facebook
1:45: Mihku Paul– is a Wolastoqey writer and visual artist who grew up on a wild Maine river. Her family is from Kingsclear First Nations. She created a one-woman exhibit at the Abbe Museum while a grad student; Look Twice: The Waponaki in Image & Verse, and is the author of 20th Century PowWow Playland. Mihku is a Fellow this year with the first inaugural Maine Literary Festival and recent work can be seen on the Atlantic Vernacular online exhibit of art/poetry, N.B. Canada. And Littoral Books anthologies Wait: Poems from the Pandemic and Enough! Poem of Protest and Resistance. Mihku lives and works in Portland, Maine. https://atlanticvernacular.ca/portfolio-item/meagan-musseau-mihku-paul/; https://www.nhpr.org/nh-news/2022-07-13/plymouth-exhibition-features-artwork-how-nh-seasons-are-changing; https://siwarmayu.com/mikhu-paul-three-poems-from-20th-century-powwow-playland/.
2:00: Chris Newell and The Iron River Singers- Chris Newell was born and raised in Motahkmikuhk (Indian Township, ME) and a proud citizen of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township. For over two decades, Chris devoted much of his time travelling all over the US and Canada singing at community pow wows and spending time in those communities learning various Native musics. He currently performs with the Iron River Singers. The Iron River Singers are an intertribal group of Abena. Northern style powwow singers from New England, formed in 1988.
Chris served for six years as the Education Supervisor for the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center. Out of the museum, Chris and his museum colleagues co-founded the Akomawt Educational Initiative as a response to observations of the public school system and the lack of representation of Native history and social studies. Chris combines his music and education disciplines together and often makes presentations that educate, but also entertain.
Chris was the Senior Advisor for the Emmy-award winning documentary Dawnland and participant in the upcoming short documentary Weckuwapok: The Approaching Dawn chronicling a historic sunrise concert collaboration in 2021 with Wabanaki musicians/storytellers and 18-time Grammy-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma. From 2020 –2021, Chris served as the first Wabanaki Executive Director for the Abbe Museum, Maine’s only Smithsonian affiliate. He and the team at the Abbe led the effort to create Digital AMIM in 2020 in response to the global pandemic which earned Chris and the entire Abbe staff a 2020 NEMA Excellence Award. Most recently Chris authored the award winning children’s history book: If You Lived During the Plimouth Thanksgiving.
Paul and Denise Pouliot 
Gary White Wolf 
Claudia Fox Tree 
Seth Willey 
Mihku Paul 
Lenny Novak Lonewolf Studio 
Divine Paradigm
Don’t miss a special exhibition of sculpture by Joseph Gray, who has been working with stone for four decades, creating pieces using the ancient, hands-on technique of hammer and chisel. As part Abenaki, Gray believes his Native American background plays a key role in his art. “It connects me with the earth and nature… When I am carving an ancestor or spirit animal, I do not know what I am carving when I start. I can feel my ancestors guiding me. It is a spiritual experience for me and I lose myself in every sculpture.” “I believe I will make an impact on the world with my stone sculpture. A smile and a warming of one’s soul is my goal as a sculptor.” – Joseph Gray
See photos of Gray’s sculpture below, including, “Harboring Thoughts,” carved for the city of Newburyport, designed to be placed along the Merrimack river, on the clipper city heritage trail. The mother seal and the baby seal represent the Newburyport community, family, and our connection to nature, along the Merrimack. Gray will also be displaying “Fragmented World” and other works at the Waterfront Park October 8. For a complete catalogue of his collection: https://www.josephgraysculpture.com/
Harboring Thoughts by Joseph Gray
Stay tuned for new fall dates for Imagine Studios community open mics, drum circles, performing arts and cultural events! For more info: 978-834-0367. Info: Facebook
PAST EVENTS:
Join us Friday April 22, 1-5pm, for a free, outdoor, Earth Day Climate Justice Rally and multicultural event, featuring drumming, theater, speakers, family activities and mainstage music performances by Lucky Leroux, Meg Rayne, John Hyde and friends @ 2pm, Mamadou @ 4pm. Thanks to Ganesh Imports, Sarah Oleson Yoga and Janco Publishing for sponsoring the music.
Other ongoing events-
Imagine’s monthly community open mic Begins again, Friday May 6 (1st Fridays Monthly)! Proceeds Benefit UkraineMusicians and poets of all ages, genres and abilities are welcome! Refreshments provided by “People’s Café”. Donations to benefit Ukraine. |
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Stay tuned information about these and other collaborative community events at the People’s United Methodist Church, 64 Purchase st. Newburyport, in collaboration with Khora Collective =A network of conversation and resource sharing focused on transforming our communities for the common good- Discerning Goodness, Creating Beauty, Living Truth, and the People’s Cafe’ = Creating a space and building community where all people are welcome.
recent events-
The public is invited for a free hybrid in person and online screening of the Upstander Project film, Dawnland, a film about cultural survival and stolen children- WINNER of the EMMY® AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING RESEARCH. Wednesday, March 30, 7-9pm.
The screening will be followed by a live Q&A with panelists Chris Newell (Passamaquoddy) senior advisor for Dawnland, Director of Education at the Akomawt Educational Initiative and author of the recent book “If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving”; Dawn Neptune Adams (Penobscot) a featured participant in Dawnland and the Maine Truth and Reconciliation Process, is a filmmaker, co-director of the short documentary Bounty journalist and environmental activist. Mishy Lesser, Ed.D. is an Emmy® award-winning researcher and the learning director for the Upstander Project and Education Fellow at the Dodd Human Rights Impact at the University of Connecticut. She is co-director of the Upstander Academy.
This screening is free, but donations are encouraged to support the work of Maine Wabanaki REACH and The Upstander Project.
Imagine Studios 