RENO, Nev. — On July 17, the Nevada Art Council’s Folklife Program announced that Flora Greene of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and Patricia Hicks of the Walker River Indian Reservation were unanimously selected by a panel of western folklorists as honored recipients of the Nevada Heritage Award for 2018.
According to a news release from the council, Greene’s special knowledge includes tanning and sewing deer hides, traditional beadwork and basketry.
“She has dedicated her whole life to maintaining the American Indian culture and preserving the Indian traditions and Paiute language,” wrote nominator Meg McDonald.
Greene, now 100 years old, was born and raised on the reservation in Nixon, Nevada, and is the oldest living alumna of the Stewart Indian School in Carson City.
Hicks, who was born on the reservation and grew up in Schurz, Nevada, has been involved with traditional dancing for more than 50 years and remains active as a dancer, teacher and singer, according to the council. She is also known for her basketry, beadwork, and making traditional buckskin regalia.
“I love to hear her sing the beautiful songs of our Numu people. She is a very talented singer and dancer who has always been willing to share her knowledge of the culture and traditions,” wrote nominator Alan Mandell, Vice Chairman of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe.
Nevada Heritage Awards recognize and celebrate living cultural treasures: individuals who embody the highest level of artistic achievement and the highest level of service. These awards, which include payment of a $3,500 honorarium, recognize lifelong commitments to mastering, teaching and sharing traditional arts. Visit www.nvculture.org/nevadaartscouncil to learn more.
