Rendez-Vous de l'Alliance with Douglas Fazzio

Native Stories: Houma People, Split-Cypress Basketry, and Access to Culturally Significant Plants in the Southeast

Event Description:
Discover the rich cultural heritage of southeastern Indigenous Peoples through the artistry of Houma basketry and woodcarving. Houma Nation artisan Douglas "Doug" Fazzio will explore the significance of these traditional crafts in preserving cultural identity and the vital role environmental protections play in ensuring access to culturally significant plants.

Presenter Biography:
Douglas "Doug" Fazzio, a proud member of the United Houma Nation, was born in 1966 in Houma, Louisiana. After a career as a commercial fisherman and boat captain, a life-changing offshore accident in 1995 led him to rediscover his cultural roots through art. Guided by his cousin and renowned woodcarver Roy Parfait, Doug began carving intricate wood sculptures and building detailed model shrimp boats. Over time, he expanded his talents to include weaving split-cypress and long-leaf pine baskets, crafting dreamcatchers, and creating jewelry from garfish scales.

Doug is a respected figure in the Houma community, known for his volunteer work in the aftermath of hurricanes. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he treasures time with loved ones and never misses a chance to go fishing. Through his work, Doug continues to keep traditional Houma art forms alive while advocating for the environmental protections that sustain these cultural practices.

Admission:
Free and open to the public.

Join us for an inspiring journey into the traditions, artistry, and resilience of the Houma people.