The Aquinnah Cultural Center has just released a new guidebook, entitled Wampanoag People of the First Light — Introduction to Aquinnah Arts, History and Culture. The 24-page picture book offers a brief glimpse into the history and culture of the Wampanoag people of Aquinnah, with a focus on art and artists. Fitting 10,000 years of history into a picture book, it provides a complete introduction to this essential aspect of the Island community. The book includes several short biographies of contemporary Wampanoag artists, sharing stories highlighting their experience as tribal people.

From the guidebook: “Recreating ancient techniques has been a time-honored tradition of scholars and artisans. Sometimes traditional materials are used with modern techniques, while other times, modern materials are used with traditional techniques. As time has progressed, the art has evolved, as did the materials used to make them.”

It is hoped that the Island community will help celebrate the arrival of this book as a useful resource for visitors to the Island, as well as residents who have lived here their whole lives.

Also from the guidebook: “[The] Aquinnah Wampanoag people of Martha’s Vineyard never replaced our traditions, we simply adapted, adding new aspects and adjusted as any living culture does. Influences of a collective history can be seen in the contemporary lives and arts of the people today.”

The guidebook can be purchased at the tribal member-owned gift shops on the Cliffs in Aquinnah, at the Bunch of Grapes Bookstore, as well as from other vendors who support the Aquinnah Cultural Center. All proceeds benefit the continued success, growth and maintenance of the tribal museum.