Esther Stutzman

Bio

Esther Stutzman is of Kalapuya and Coos heritage, an enrolled Confederated Tribes of Siletz member, and a traditional storyteller. A founding member of the Northwest Indian Storyteller’s Association, Stutzman is also a Primary Storyteller for Mother Earth’s Children, an American Indian repertory theater. She is also the Founding Director of the American Indian Youth Camp, now in its 40th year. She independently fundraises over $11,000 annually to bring anywhere from 60-100 school-aged youth to a wooded setting to learn about native traditions, sharing cultural knowledge, as well as food and love non-stop for a week. Stutzman and her family are often called on to bring drumming and singing to important occasions around the state. As a former teacher and curriculum developer, Esther was a longtime Oregon Folklife Program participant on the OFP artist roster, giving numerous presentations about native traditions to Oregon schoolchildren, museums, libraries, and universities. Esther Stutzman has also been a Master Artist in the Oregon Folklife Network’s Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeship program, as she was for the former Oregon Folklife Program.

Why is this cultural tradition important to your community?

“Stories pass on history and lessons. Often, the stories detail epic adventures of tribal ‘heroes and heroines’ who possess moral values that are important to tribal unity. These stories were once passed along as a reminder of the values of tribal groups, who would refer to the stories to teach and reinforce lessons. Unfortunately, today’s world often calls for a more straightforward approach in teaching life’s lessons, with very directive laws and policies that are unbendable. Within the Native culture, the ties to tribal and family teachings are strong and those lessons that need to be at the forefront of Native Society must sometimes be gentle reminders in order to respect an individual’s right to make choices. Because the art of storytelling is so important to retaining the past, these ancient stories cannot be lost or forgotten and our elders constantly worry that this tradition will disappear within a few generations.”

Sharing Art Through Virtual Meetings

More Information About the Artist

Find more information about Esther Stutzman at the Oregon Folklife Network‘s Oregon Culture Keepers Roster and Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program pages.