The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Fiddlehead Fiddlehead (Ostrich Fern) Matteuccia struthiopteris
Meaning of the imagery
The fiddlehead is a powerful symbol of renewal, emergence, and the unfolding of life. Its spiral form reflects cycles of growth and the continuous return of teachings from the land. In this piece, the woman bends close to the earth, embodying humility and attentiveness—qualities essential for gathering not only food, but knowledge. The surrounding ferns echo this sense of re
Importance & use
Fiddleheads are among the first foods gathered in early spring, marking a transition from winter scarcity to seasonal abundance. Harvested carefully while still tightly curled, they are a nutritious source of vitamins and minerals and have long been an important part of traditional diets. Their gathering requires knowledge of timing, place, and respectful harvesting practices to e
Teaching
The fiddlehead teaches us about patience and right timing. Not everything is ready at once, and careful observation is needed to know when to act. It reminds us that growth happens in stages, and that what is tightly held will, in time, open. Through this teaching, we are invited to trust in cycles—of the land, of learning, and of ourselves.
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Mushrooms of the Forest and Fields
Meaning of the imagery
The mushroom reflects teachings of awareness, discernment, and respect for what is both nourishing and potentially harmful. The figure holding a single mushroom represents knowledge carried with care—understanding that not all things that grow from the earth are meant to be taken without knowing.
The circular form above, surrounded by mushrooms, reflects cycles of growth, dec
Importance & Use
Mushrooms were gathered as a seasonal food, providing nourishment and variety. However, their use required deep knowledge and careful identification, as some species are beneficial while others are harmful.
This gathering practice reflects responsibility, patience, and respect for the land. It teaches that survival is not only about abundance, but about understanding, caution, and
Mushroom Circle
Meaning of the imagery
The circular arrangement reflects cycles of life, interconnectedness, and the unseen systems beneath the earth that support growth and renewal.
Importance & Use
Mushrooms contribute to the health of ecosystems by breaking down matter and returning nutrients to the soil.
Gathering with Discernment
Meaning of the imagery
Holding a single mushroom represents car
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Maple & Birch Sap Acer saccharum & Betula papyrifera
Meaning of the imagery
The sunflower turns toward the sun, reflecting guidance, gratitude, and the seeking of light. The figure holding seeds represents care, responsibility, and the role of women in carrying knowledge of nourishment forward.
The bees surrounding the sun speak to interdependence—reminding us that growth and abundance are not created alone, but through relationships between plants,
Importance & Use
Maple and birch sap were gathered in early spring as one of the first sources of nourishment after winter. The sap was carefully collected and heated, becoming syrup or sugar that could be used, stored, and shared.
This process required time, cooperation, and deep knowledge of seasonal change. Beyond nourishment, sap gathering reflects teachings of transformation, patience, and
Sap Gathering (Spring Teaching)
Meaning of the imagery
Gathering sap marks the transition from winter to spring. It reflects renewal, hope, and the beginning of new growth.
Importance & Use
Sap provided one of the first seasonal foods, offering energy and sustenance after long winters.
Fire (Transformation)
Meaning of the imagery
The fire represents change—turning sap into syrup through care, time
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Meaning of the imagery
The sunflower turns toward the sun, reflecting guidance, gratitude, and the seeking of light. The figure holding seeds represents care, responsibility, and the role of women in carrying knowledge of nourishment forward.
The bees surrounding the sun speak to interdependence—reminding us that growth and abundance are not created alone, but through relationships between plants,
Importance & Use
Sunflowers were traditionally valued for both their seeds and oils, providing nourishment, energy, and medicine. The seeds could be eaten, ground, or pressed, supporting both daily sustenance and long-term storage.
Beyond their physical use, sunflowers represent a system of relationship—dependent on pollinators such as bees, and guided by seasonal cycles. Their gathering and use r
Meaning of the imagery
The surrounding sunflowers reflect abundance, growth, and the presence of community. Standing together, they mirror how knowledge and nourishment are shared across generations.
Importance & Use
Fields of sunflowers provided a reliable source of seeds that could be harvested, stored, and used throughout the year, supporting both individual and community wellbeing.
Bees (Pol
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Wild Rice (Manoomin) Zizania palustris
Meaning of the imagery
The presence of wild rice speaks to movement across the water, guided by relationship and knowledge. The figure in the canoe reflects the teachings of gathering—listening, watching, and moving with intention. The dragonflies surrounding her carry messages of transformation, guidance, and connection between water, sky, and spirit.
The sun above represents life-giving energy
Importance & Use
Wild rice, or manoomin, is a sacred and vital food that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations. It is harvested carefully from the water using traditional methods that ensure the plant continues to grow and thrive.
It provides nourishment, strength, and cultural continuity. Beyond food, the gathering of wild rice carries teachings of respect, reciprocity, and stewardshi
Dragonflies Over Water
Dragonflies Over Water
Meaning of the imagery
Dragonflies move between water and air, symbolizing transformation, adaptability, and guidance. Their presence reflects the unseen connections between worlds and the teachings carried across generations.
Importance & Use
While not gathered as food, dragonflies hold cultural and spiritual meaning. They remind us to remain present,
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Blueberry
Meaning of the imagery
The blueberry is often represented as a symbol of humility, generosity, and quiet strength. Growing close to the earth, it reminds us that nourishment and wisdom are found by those who move slowly and attentively across the land.
Importance & use
Blueberries were traditionally gathered fresh, dried for winter storage, and used as a vital food source. They provided nutrients,
Blueberry Patch
Meaning of the imagery
Clusters of blueberries reflect community, abundance, and interconnection. The imagery speaks to collective gathering — families and communities coming together to harvest what the land freely offers.
Importance & use
Beyond food, blueberries were shared, traded, and incorporated into soups, breads, and pemmican. Their preservation allowed knowledge of the lan
Blueberry Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
The act of harvesting blueberries represents care, respect, and relationship with the land. Each berry is taken thoughtfully, acknowledging that gathering is both sustenance and responsibility.
Importance & use
Blueberries were also valued for their medicinal qualities and used to support health and healing. Their role extended beyond nourishment, reinforcin
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Strawberry
Meaning of the imagery
The strawberry is often associated with love, renewal, and the return of life after winter. As one of the first fruits to appear, it symbolizes gratitude and the renewal of relationships between people and the land.
Importance & use
Strawberries were gathered fresh and eaten at the start of the growing season, marking a time of celebration and thanksgiving. They provided no
Strawberry Plant
Meaning of the imagery
The low-growing strawberry plant represents humility, gentleness, and connection to the earth. Its runners spreading outward reflect continuity, kinship, and the way knowledge and life extend across generations.
Importance & use
Strawberries were used not only as food but also valued for their leaves and roots, which were prepared as teas and medicines. The
Strawberry Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
Harvesting strawberries reflects care, patience, and attentiveness. The act of gathering these delicate fruits reinforces respect for timing, balance, and reciprocity with the land.
Importance & use
Strawberries were shared within families and communities, often eaten fresh or incorporated into dishes. Their harvest reinforced social bonds and seasonal teac
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - SQuash
Meaning of the imagery
Squash is often represented as a symbol of sustenance, protection, and continuity. Its broad leaves and strong vines speak to care, shelter, and the steady presence of food that supports families over time.
Importance & use
Squash was cultivated, harvested, cured, and stored, providing a dependable food source through the winter months. Its flesh and seeds offered nourishmen
Squash Plant
Meaning of the imagery
The spreading vines of the squash plant represent growth, interdependence, and balance. The plant’s ability to cover and protect the soil reflects teachings of stewardship and respect for the land.
Importance & use
Every part of the squash plant was valued. Blossoms, flesh, and seeds were used for food, while the plant itself supported healthy growing environment
Squash Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
Harvesting squash symbolizes preparation, foresight, and responsibility. The careful gathering and curing of squash reflects an understanding of seasonal cycles and long-term care for the community.
Importance & use
Once cured, squash could be stored for months and used in soups, stews, and roasted dishes. Its long keeping qualities made it a cornerstone food f
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Corn
Meaning of the imagery
Corn is often represented as a symbol of life, nourishment, and relationship. Standing tall and rooted, it reflects resilience and the deep connection between people, land, and the responsibilities of cultivation.
Importance & use
Corn was carefully planted, tended, harvested, dried, and stored. It served as a staple food, providing essential nourishment and sustaining commu
Corn Plant
Meaning of the imagery
The corn plant represents balance, cooperation, and interdependence. Growing alongside other crops, it reflects teachings of working together and respecting the role each plant plays within the larger ecosystem.
Importance & use
Corn supported companion planting, enriching the soil and strengthening food systems. Its leaves, stalks, and husks were also used for pra
Corn Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
Harvesting corn symbolizes responsibility, patience, and gratitude. The timing and care required reflect knowledge passed through generations about seasonal cycles and preparation.
Importance & use
Once dried, corn could be ground into meal, boiled, or added to soups and stews. Its versatility and storability made it a cornerstone food, sustaining families throug
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Bulrush
Meaning of the imagery
Bulrush represents resilience, adaptability, and survival at the water’s edge. Growing where land and water meet, it symbolizes balance, protection, and the ability to thrive in changing conditions.
Importance & use
Bulrush was an essential resource for food, shelter, and daily life. Its roots were harvested for nourishment, providing starch and sustenance when other foods w
Bulrush Plant
Meaning of the imagery
The tall stalks of the bulrush plant reflect strength, flexibility, and endurance. Its presence along shorelines speaks to protection, acting as a buffer between water and land.
Importance & use
Nearly every part of the bulrush was used. The leaves and stems were woven into mats, baskets, and coverings, while the plant contributed to healthy wetland ecosystems t
Bulrush Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
Harvesting bulrush symbolizes careful knowledge of place and season. Gathering required respect for wetlands and an understanding of when and how to take without harming future growth.
Importance & use
Bulrush roots were cooked or dried and ground into flour, while fibers were used for insulation, cordage, and shelter. Its versatility made bulrush a vital mate
The Gathers: Teachers of Survival - Acorn
Meaning of the imagery
The acorn represents potential, endurance, and continuity. Though small in form, it carries the promise of strength and longevity, reminding us that growth begins with patience and care.
Importance & use
Acorns were a vital food source, carefully gathered and processed. Once leached to remove bitterness, they were ground into flour and used to make nourishing meals that sust
Oak Tree
Meaning of the imagery
The oak tree symbolizes stability, wisdom, and protection. Its deep roots and long life reflect teachings of responsibility to future generations.
Importance & use
Beyond providing acorns, the oak offered wood, shade, and shelter. Its presence marked reliable gathering places that communities returned to year after year.
Acorn Harvest
Meaning of the imagery
Harvesting acorns reflects preparation, cooperation, and foresight. Gathering was often a communal effort, reinforcing shared responsibility and seasonal knowledge.
Importance & use
Acorns were dried, stored, and processed into flour for breads, soups, and porridges. Their ability to be preserved made them an essential food for long-term survival.