community witnessed what they call the “a`fa`i`fa`i.” This Carolinian word means “the ceremony of the finishing.”
According to the 2008 American Masterpiece recipient, Henry Yarofalpiy, the ceremony is done as a sign of offering to the spirit of the canoe.
Yarofalpiy worked on the canoe for a little over three months. He was able to showcase the creation process during the Flame Tree Arts Festival, which was a first for the Masterpiece Program.
Friday’s ceremony was documented. The Arts Council, with the help of the National Endowment of Arts, will distribute the documentary among schools and other learning centers as part of the efforts to preserve the values and culture of the Carolinian community.
This month, Celis will be in Washington, D.C. to present the documentary and a smaller version of the canoe to an NEA exhibit.
Celis said the Arts Council “acts as the liaison for artists,” which is why they will be showcasing the canoe made by Yarofalpiy at the gallery on Capital Hill starting today until the third of July along with other creations made by the women of the community.
The gallery will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturdays.
