Spring at Yulića
Celebrating Creativity, Culture, and Connection
Supporting Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Arts at Yulića
Spring is on the horizon, and with it comes a new season of creativity and connection through CHIRP's Tribal Arts Enrichment project, a key component of the Visibility Through Arts (VTA) initiative. This project plays a vital role in amplifying Nisenan voices and stories through artistic expression, ensuring that the Tribe’s Cultural narratives are visible and celebrated by the broader community.
Tribal Members kicked off 2025 with a two-day stained glass workshop at Yulića, in our new dedicated arts space on recently acquired Tribal land! Guided by local stained glass legends Rachel and Kilani of @flux.flow.glass, participants designed and crafted their own pieces, which will be showcased in ‘Uba Seo’s fall exhibit.
We're excited to share that in the spring, CHIRP will continue to offer Tribal Arts Enrichment activities at the Arts Center at Yulića - the Nisenan Ancestral Homelands at the heart of the Homeland Return campaign.
Since the fall of 2024, a number of Tribal families have moved onto the land, and Yulića is quickly becoming a Cultural and artistic hub for the Tribe, offering a powerful environment for healing, stability, and Cultural revitalization.
What’s Happening This Spring?
CHIRP is proud to facilitate an inspiring lineup of workshops designed exclusively for Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribal Members to nurture their creative spirit and deepen their connection and expression of Nisenan Culture:
Tribal Members took part in a hands-on sewing workshop at ‘Uba Seo in 2024, led by master tailor Andrew Bosher. Participants expanded their creative skill sets, mastering simple clothing repairs and crafting Hacky Sacks - a modern adaptation that draws inspiration from ancient Native American games.
Regular Drawing & Painting Sessions with VTA Coordinator Mira Clark
Animal Mask-Making Workshop with Artist Jenny Hale
Textile Fabric Dyeing & Large-Scale Installation Workshops with Artist Mekdela Maskal
Special Series of Workshops for a large-scale, permanent art installation at Wildflower Ridge Preserve - details coming soon!
Why It Matters
The Tribal Arts Enrichment Project is more than just creating art. It’s about reclaiming stories, nurturing well-being, and strengthening the bonds between NCR Tribal Members, Nisenan Culture, and their Ancestral Homelands.
Tribal Members explored the art of glassblowing in a 2024 workshop with local artist Bishop Randall in his studio. Participants learned the art of glassblowing, crafting unique arrowhead pendants and marbles. Photo by Mira Clark
Through hands-on workshops, Tribal Members explore new artistic mediums, connect with local artists, and contribute to Cultural preservation efforts that preserve and celebrate the vibrant heritage of the Nisenan people.
Hosting these workshops at Yulića adds a deeper layer of meaning. This land, returned to the Tribe through the Homeland Return campaign, is more than a location; it's a living testament to resilience of the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan People, and the dedication and solidarity of the Tribe’s supporters in championing justice and Nisenan Cultural preservation. This is the first time the Tribe has had this level of access to their Ancestral Homelands in centuries - gathering together in community on the land while engaging in creative expression and revitalizing Cultural practices is tremendously healing and a dream come true in many ways.
How You Can Support
While this programming is solely for Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribal Members, you can play a vital role in supporting this important work:
Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribal Member Cindy Buero works on her piece The Wash as part of the current 'Uba Seo exhibit during an arts workshop with CHIRP's VTA Coordinator and artist Mira Clark. This process underscores the vital role of artistic expression in preserving and celebrating Nisenan heritage, contributing to the gallery's current cultural showcase. Photo by Mira Clark
Join us in honoring the rich Cultural heritage of the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe.
Your support helps preserve a living Culture through the transformative power of art.