Apprenticeships
Guidelines
Program
The Montana Arts Council is committed to the preservation and encouragement of the folk and traditional arts of our state. We recognize that a master/apprenticeship relationship in a community setting is one of the most effective ways of supporting the vitality of traditional artists and the gifts they have to offer.
Many folk artists work full time and do not have time to teach their art to another. The Montana Arts Council Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program encourages the passing on of folk arts by offering awards to individual master artists for the purpose of teaching their art and skills to a dedicated apprentice who wants to learn.
The apprenticeship arrangement consists of a pairing between a master artist and an apprentice. In some cases, more than one apprentice may be involved if it makes good sense. Funds are given to the master artist as recognition of his or her artistic expertise and quality. The next application deadline will be announced in the future.
The Montana Arts Council’s Folklife Program has awarded a total of 52 Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships to Montana artists since 1994. Following is a list of the apprenticeships since 2000.
Masters and Apprentices
2000-2001
Master Elva Stands in Timber and Apprentice Luella Rusette – moccasin making
Master Alma Hogan Snell and Apprentices Karen Snell and Faith Chosa – traditional herbalism
Master Birdie Real Bird and Apprentices LeeAnn Bruised Head, Rhea Real Bird, Angela Russell, Faye Rides at the Door – Crow belt making
Master Michael Williams and Apprentice Tegan Hahn – dance fiddling
2001-2002
Master Pat Kennedy and Apprentice Kenny Old Person – old time social songs
Master Jay Old Mouse and Apprentice Shontae Old Mouse – flute making
Master Diane Scalese and Apprentice Julie Lybeck – western silver engraving
Master Emma Don't Mix and Apprentices Angela Russell, Janine Pease, Regina Stewart, Gustine Old Bear, Minne Fritzler and the women of Lodge Grass – high top moccasins
2003-2004
Master Iris Elk Runner and Apprentice Ingrid Firemoon – porcupine quillwork
Master Annette Archdale Linder and Apprentice Christy Birdsbill – star quilting
Master George White and Apprentice Andrew "AJ" Butler – Red River cart making
Master John Arcand and Apprentices Jamie and Vince Fox – Metis fiddle playing
Master Debbie Herrington and Apprentice Perle McGillis – Chippewa beadwork
2005-2006
Master Jackie Bread and Apprentice Robyn Pepion – Blackfeet two-needle beadwork
Master Kevin Burke and Apprentice Chip Jasmin – Irish fiddle playing
Master Christine First and Apprentice Ninette Hamilton – star quilting
Master Richard Horn and Apprentice Jacob Tailfeathers Stalnaker – traditional games equipment making
Master Cary Youpee and Apprentices the Magpie Singers – hand drum making
