Northwest Folklife
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Faces of Northwest Folklife

Over the past 45 years, Northwest Folklife has had the opportunity work with leaders, organizers, teachers, elders and various community members who have helped us celebrate the unique arts and culture that make up our Pacific Northwest community. Through Faces of Northwest Folklife, we will highlight some of the many groups and individuals that we work with, to put a face to the people who really help to make Northwest Folklife possible–because Northwest Folklife truly is all about your communities, your traditions and your folklife.

Edgardo Garcia is a volunteer, festival producer and committee member of the Dia de Muertos Committee and an integral member of our 2018 Cultural Focus Committee who continues to show us that celebrating one’s culture is something that neither time nor distance can separate.

Robert Nellams is the Director of Seattle Center, and has served as such for the past 12 years. His dedication to making this place a democratic, accessible space for all is apparent in his support for many multicultural programs and organizations, including Northwest Folklife.

Dr. Joyce Paul Siamak is a mentor, choreographer, educator, and Community Coordinator who has been connected to the Folklife community since 2001. Joyce’s work is highlighted in Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)’s exhibit, Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation. 

The art of Preston Singletary has become synonymous with the relationship between European glass blowing traditions and Northwest Native art. His artworks feature themes of transformation, animal spirits and shamanism through elegant blown glass forms and mystical sand carved Tlingit designs. He was selected as the poster artist for the 2020 Northwest Folklife Festival.