Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts is thrilled to announce our upcoming Wapas Weaving Workshop with weaver, Michael Ray Johnson! Wápaas (woven bag) weaving is a traditional art form that begins with a round base and evolves into a variety of shapes, from tall and slender, resembling a quiver, to shorter and wide, as broad as a basketball hoop. The process involves tightly twisting yarn through a framework of jute, hemp, or craft cord, with the tightness of the weave determining the stiffness and strength of the wápaas walls.The artistry lies not only in the designs – often intricate and colorful – but also in the structural integrity of the finished piece. Tightly woven wápaas boast thick, sturdy walls that reflect the weaver’s skill and experience. Over time, weavers refine their techniques, creating works that beautifully balance function, design, and craftsmanship.