‘Digital Forage: Gathering the Wisdom of Island Elders’ is an intergenerational digital storytelling and media mentorship project that involves the reciprocal sharing of knowledge between artists, elders, and youth living in and around the ‘Salish Sea’. This program uses technology as a bridge between generations and ways of life in an attempt to help preserve essential knowledge that is in danger of being lost. Over the course this program, that has taken place on Galiano Island and Penelakut Island (formerly Kuper Island) since the fall of 2012, elders have shared specialized and ‘seasoned’ knowledge of traditional foods, medicines, and foraging practices with youth. Through creative collaboration, artists have shared their knowledge of photography, digital storytelling, new media production which is beautifully preserved on SalishHarvest.com. This site features short videos and clips from the project participants, related recipes, traditional medicine resources and much more. 6 artists worked with over 30 youth and elders on the program to date. Testimonials “Working with the youth in my own community is one of the most emotionally rewarding jobs a person can have. Opportunities such as the Digital Forage program are extremely beneficial for our children’s future. I am very proud to witness and be a part of this experience.” Testimonials “The shared use of technology proved to be a great way to bridge the gap between youth and adults and find common ground to talk about First Nations history, culture, and ethnobotany. Many barriers were overcome and cross-cultural friendships were forged as a direct result of the Digital Harvest project. I look forward to future collaboration.” Testimonials “The best way to get kids to learn about traditional foods and ways is to get them out of the classroom and onto the land.” Help ensure that emerging change-makers from the margins are media savvy, and out front! Digital Forage
Gathering the Wisdom of Island Elders
About Digital Forage Workshops
Mel Jack
Education Assistant, Penelakut Island Elementary School (PIES)
Tina Walker
Teacher (Gr. 6/7), Penelakut Island Elementary School
Augie Sylvester
Penelakut Elder / knowledge holder
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