Field Notes 2024: Barbara Lawrence

May 2024: Barbara Lawrence, Suquamish Tribal Elder

Explore Bloedel Reserve through the art, writings, and uniques perspectives of the Creative Residents during the time they are visiting the grounds. These entries give you a peek at works-in-progress, sources of inspiration, approaches to craft, exploration of new techniques, and more.

Barbara Lawrence, MBA, Storyteller

Barbara is a Suquamish Tribal Elder and a traditional storyteller. She has a passion for and deep knowledge of Suquamish and Coast Salish history, culture, and archaeology. Raised on the Suquamish Port Madison Indian Reservation, near Seattle, Washington, she was very involved in the conception of the Canoe Journeys through her appointment to the Washington State Centennial Commission. Barbara has served on several Washington State Advisory Boards, committees, commissions and task forces that bridge tribal and state interests. She currently works for the Suquamish Tribal Education Department. Barbara is the mother of four adult children and the Kiyah (grandmother) to 12 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Storytelling to her grandchildren is her favorite past time.

Barbara Lawrence’s residency is made possible by the Suquamish Museum, Bloedel Reserve, and is supported in part by Appendix X funding.

Suquamish Appendix X Grants (section 14) of the Gaming Compact between Suquamish Tribe and the State of Washington describe specific funds, which are available for award to charitable, non-profit and tribal community programs. Priority is given to applicants with projects in the fields of youth services, education, health and wellness, and environmental preservation and restoration.