Learning Through Relationship, Movement, Making, and Experience

Join us for the annual Indigenous Felt Knowledge Festival (IFKF) at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Union, a day-long gathering that brings together Indigenous artists, knowledge keepers, educators, students, and community members through workshops, performances, demonstrations, conversations, and hands-on learning experiences.

Rooted in Indigenous pedagogies, the festival invites participants to engage with knowledge not simply as information, but as something lived, shared, embodied, and experienced through relationships.

Whether you stay for an hour or spend the entire day exploring, the festival offers multiple pathways into learning, creativity, and connection.

Event Highlights

Throughout the day, participants can:

• Learn traditional Indigenous arts and crafts through hands-on workshops
• Participate in dance, singing, and cultural demonstrations
• Listen to Indigenous artists and knowledge keepers share teachings and stories
• Explore Indigenous relationships to land, community, culture, and creativity
• Engage with natural materials such as clay, plants, and hide
• Observe intergenerational knowledge-sharing in action
• Visit with artists, Elders, students, and community members
• Support Indigenous-owned businesses and vendors

With workshops surrounding a central performance area, attendees are encouraged to move between experiences, follow their curiosity, and learn at their own pace.

Featured Performances & Presenters

This year’s festival will feature presentations, performances, and workshops led by:

• Mark Denning
• Avery Anderson
• Hale O Malo
• Wade Fernandez
• Jennifer Stevens
• Rachel Jeske
• Becky Webster
• Julie Clark
• Malia Chow

Additional presenters may be added as programming is finalized.

Workshops & Interactive Experiences

Participants will have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning throughout the day, including:

• Indigenous arts and creative practices
• Traditional making and crafting techniques
• Experiential learning activities
• Interactive demonstrations

All experience levels are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to drop in throughout the day.

Indigenous Vendor Marketplace

The festival will also feature a marketplace showcasing Indigenous artists, makers, and entrepreneurs:

• Tootsie’s Tea
• Kristina Beads
• Sarah L. Wilson Studio
• Yenepa Herbals
• Bear Tracks
• Mariah Grace Art & Design
• Eagle Lady Crafts
• All Bead Up
• Black Feather Jewels

Visitors are encouraged to support these talented vendors and learn about their work.