West Falmouth Library is honored to host our April artist of the Month, Mashpee Wampanoag tribal member Cheenulka Pocknett. Pocknett, whose name translates to “Tall Deer,” is a member of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and a dedicated cultural activist. His work is rooted in the preservation and sharing of Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and values. Through performance, education, and traditional craftsmanship, he strives to strengthen cultural understanding to keep Wampanoag heritage alive for future generations.
Driven by a deep passion to educate communities about Indigenous culture, Cheenulka founded and directs the Red Hawk Singers and Dancers. This renowned cultural group performs at schools and venues across the nation, using traditional drumming, singing, and dance to authentically share Wampanoag history, teachings, and values. Their performances create meaningful opportunities for audiences to experience living Native traditions.
Cheenulka also maintains a personal connection to his heritage through traditional artistic practices such as feather work, beadwork, and creating wampum. These skills have been passed down through generations of his family and community. From sourcing natural materials locally to trading for specialized materials, each piece reflects a continuation of ancestral knowledge and craftsmanship.
Through his work as a performer, educator, and traditional artist, Cheenulka continues the living traditions of the Mashpee Wampanoag people while fostering greater awareness and respect for Indigenous cultures.