Artist Nikki Willie

Basket weaver, Potter, Bead worker, moccasin maker, Seamstress.

Hello, my name is Nikki Willie. I am from the Ollero Clan; I have lived in Dulce all of my life. I am one of few basket weavers among my tribe. Basket making has employed me for over 3 decades. I learned basket making from Lydia Pesata. I enjoy weaving and creating many styles of basketry. As a weaver I must be physically and mentally prepared for this task. It takes many hours, days, weeks, and sometimes months to make one basket. My baskets are made for decoration or used for traditional healing ceremonies. My beautiful, completed baskets speak for me, I don’t have to say much. When a basket is completed it’s a beautiful keepsake for all to enjoy.

Jicarilla Cultural Arts & Heritage Center
P.O. Box 507 
Dulce, New Mexico 87528

Highway 64 located next to the
Jicarilla Shopping Center at the
4 way stop

Hours:
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
Weekend hours call for hours.

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Credits:
Jicarilla Apache Nation Council
Jicarilla Apache Archives
Lorene Willis
Vernon Petago
Mary Velarde
Shelden Nunez-Velarde

Copyright 2023 Jicarilla Apache Cultural Arts and Heritage Center