Diania L. Caudell
Basket Weaving
Diania is a Luiseño Native American from Oceanside, California. She grew up traveling across California and nearby states before settling in San Juan Capistrano to raise her family and attend college.
Diania has worked in automotive management, accounting, and education, playing a key role in establishing the Indian Education Act program in the Capistrano Unified School District. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the California Indian Basket-weavers Association (CIBA) and represents them on the Tribal Pesticide Program Council with the EPA.
Passionate about preserving her culture, Diania works with students and organizations to share the art of traditional Native American basketry and advocate for protecting native plants from environmental threats.
Linda Kallas
Basket Weaving
As a retired art and drama teacher with numerous awards and advanced degrees in education and the arts, Linda provides engaging classes and workshops for individuals of all ages.
She is passionate about building a strong sense of community and is dedicated to supporting the local vibrant cultural heritage of Native Americans through art and education.
Alice Farris
San Diego County, Gourd Artist
Welcome to my world of gourd art, where creativity flourishes through the rich traditions of Native American decoration. As a passionate artist, I love sharing the skills and techniques involved in gourd decorating, showcasing the unique expressions that each piece embodies. Together with my husband, a Luiseño Master Basket Weaver, we aim to teach the intricacies of this beautiful art form, celebrating the deep cultural heritage that inspires our work.
Reen Magante
(Payómkawish)
Language Preservationist
Míiyuyam 'ónanum,
Notúng Reen Magante yaqáa. Nóon Payómkawish Páawmangay.
Reen Magante, a Payómkawish from Pauma, has dedicated nearly a decade to the study of her native language. While her linguistic journey is ongoing, she is committed to sharing the knowledge she has acquired. Through this effort, she aspires to inspire more members of the Payómkawichum community to learn and speak Chamtéela, preserving and revitalizing her ancestral language.
Alex Osuna
Native American & Natural Resource Educator
Alex Osuna, a member of the White Mountain Apache Tribe (Dził Łígai Sa'í Ndé), spent much of his upbringing in Temecula, where he explored the Cleveland National Forest. Immersing himself in the study of native plants and wildlife, he developed a deep appreciation for the land’s natural beauty and abundant resources.
Now, at 41, Alex shares his knowledge of the region’s flora and fauna while dedicating himself to uplifting the community through education and resource-sharing. He strives to bring old-world wisdom and Indigenous perspectives into the modern day, helping others find sustainability in everyday life.
PJ Fosselman
Traditional Native American Habitat
& Artifact Artisan
PJ Fosselman is Guavish Huscapish Pechanga Band and is dedicated to preserving the traditions of Californian Native Americans, ensuring their knowledge is passed down to future generations.
He is renowned for his expertise in nature-foraged basket weaving, Tule boat construction, and the building of Kíichas—traditional tule houses—crafted for educational displays and cultural preservation.
Raenette
Anguiano Olvera
Beading, Basket Weaving, Sewing
Raenette is passionate and proud of her rich Luiseño Native American heritage from Southern California. She celebrates and honors the traditions passed down to her by sharing her knowledge with others. Join her on this journey of discovery to explore the wisdom and beauty of Native American culture, fostering connections and understanding along the way. Thank you for your curiosity and eagerness to learn!
Rita Naranjo
Native American Jewelry
Rita Naranjo is an Indigenous jewelry artist dedicated to preserving and sharing ancestral traditions through handcrafted adornments. Raised with a deep respect for the land and its gifts, Rita incorporates natural materials such as ethically sourced stones, shells, wood, and metals, infusing each piece with cultural meaning and spiritual connection.
Rita blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design, ensuring that Indigenous artistry continues to thrive in today's world.