Shirly Hook | Vermont Abenaki Artists Association

Koasek Traditional Band of the Koas Abenaki Nation

Juried Artist since 2014

Shirly Hook serves on the Koasek Council of Chiefs, a former member of the Vermont Commission for Native American Affairs, an author, and artist. Having grown with up two strong role models, her mother and grandmother, Shirly started sewing at a very young age.

As an adult, she started making rattles, leather pouches, jewelry and “something out of nothing.” She taught herself how to make traditional rattles, made with rawhide and whatever type of wood or branches are available. She has been marketing her art for more than 40 years.

Her recent book My Bring Up recounts stories from her childhood.

Artist Statement

I am a self-taught artist, learning my skills from my mother and grandmother. I have been producing and selling my art for about 40 years. I prefer using natural or recycled materials in my work.