8 WEEK PROGRAM

PADDLE CARVING PROGRAM

Carve a Traditional Cedar Paddle & Connect with Squamish Nation Culture

Two people standing indoors, one holding a wooden paddle, next to a workbench and large window.
Person holding a handcrafted wooden paddle in a workshop with tools and safety equipment in the background.
Wood carving with Indigenous design in a workshop
Two people working on a woodworking project, using measuring tools and pencils on a table with paper and other tools.
A person working on woodworking project using a hand planer on a wooden board, wearing a green t-shirt with floral design and black pants, standing in a workshop with various tools and equipment in the background.
Person woodworking with a hand tool, smoothing a wooden piece with shavings on the floor, in a workshop setting.
Group of people in a workshop holding wooden paddles
Person carving wood with chisel at workbench
Person carving wood in a workshop, wearing a T-shirt and using a hand tool with wood shavings visible.
Group of people in a workshop
Wooden paddles with one intricately carved piece featuring a detailed design and an inlaid eye, displayed on a rack.

Program Overview

Join us for an 8-week paddle carving journey led by renowned Squamish Nation carver, Art Harry. In this unique program, you’ll craft your own traditional cedar canoe paddle, while learning about the deep cultural and historical significance of canoe carving within the Squamish Nation.

Over the course of the program, participants will develop skills in shaping, carving, and finishing cedar, while gaining insight into the stories, traditions, and practices that have shaped this artform for generations.

This course is offered through the CREATE Makerspace Society and is available at both a full price and a heavily subsidized rate to make it more accessible to the community. The course is made possible thanks to the Squamish Arts & Culture grant from Squamish Arts.

What You’ll Learn

  • Traditional paddle carving techniques using cedar

  • Tool handling, shaping, and finishing methods

  • Understanding the cultural significance of canoe paddles in Squamish Nation history

  • Respectful practices when working with traditional materials

  • The importance of storytelling and tradition in craftwork

What’s Included

  • Hands-on instruction from Art Harry

  • Cedar materials to create your own paddle

  • Use of carving tools and studio equipment

  • Access to CREATE Makerspace woodshop for scheduled sessions

Program dates

All classes take place from 6-9pm on the dates listed below:

  • Session 1 - Monday, June 30, 2025

  • Session 2 - Monday, July 7, 2025

  • Session 3 - Monday, July 14, 2025

  • **Gap Week**

  • Session 4 - Monday, July 28, 2025

  • Session 5 - Monday, August 4, 2025

  • Session 6 - Monday, August 11, 2025

  • Session 7 - Monday, August 18, 2025

  • Session 8 - Monday, August 25, 2025

what to bring + Personal Safety

Please bring your own apron or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. For your own personal safety during this class, please:

  • Wear closed-toe shoes

  • Ensure long hair is securely tied up and out of the way

  • Remove all jewelry

  • Do not wear loose clothing

Prerequisites

None. This class is beginner friendly.

Apply HERE