Reviving Heritage:

In a lively and inspiring conversation with Nant’a Cougar Goodbear, the driving force behind Canneciville, we delved deep into his cultural heritage, his unwavering dedication to the arts, and his relentless efforts to revive and sustain the traditions of the Canneci Tinné (pronounced shaw-neh-shih tihn-neh) people. This is the story of Cougar and his mission to reclaim and celebrate his community’s vibrant history and culture.

The Roots of the Canneci People

The Canneci people, part of the broader Apache family, have deep historical roots in the southeastern United States, particularly in Louisiana. Despite facing centuries of displacement and cultural suppression, the Canneci have preserved their unique heritage, encompassing their language, customs, and spiritual practices. Nant’a Cougar Goodbear, a descendant of this resilient lineage, has made it his life’s work to ensure that the Canneci culture not only survives but thrives for future generations.

An Artistic Journey Fueled by Heritage

Cougar’s artistic journey began in his childhood, where his creativity was evident as he crafted toys from everyday materials like cereal boxes and aluminum foil. Growing up under the guidance of his grandparents, he was deeply influenced by the cultural teachings and practices of his Canneci heritage. This early immersion in art and culture set the stage for his lifelong passion for creative expression and cultural preservation.

“I grew up being an artist, actually. I made my own toys,” Cougar recalls, reflecting on his early days of creating imaginative pieces. This blend of creativity and cultural heritage later led him to study at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and the University of Oklahoma, focusing on Native American Studies and Public Relations.

The Birth of Canneciville

The concept of Canneciville emerged from a profound need to reclaim the Canneci’s ancestral lands and cultural practices. Cougar shared the historical context, explaining how their ancestors were forcibly removed from their lands in the 1800s through false accusations and violent raids. One of the most poignant stories he shared was about his ancestor, August Goodbear, who was targeted and brutally whipped by vigilantes trying to drive the Canneci off their land.

Despite such adversity, the Canneci people, led by figures like August and Chief Coco, continued to resist and preserve their identity. This spirit of resilience is what Cougar channels through Canneciville, a space dedicated to the revival and education of Canneci culture.

Cultural Preservation Through Art

At Canneciville, art is a vital means of cultural preservation. Cougar integrates various traditional practices such as pottery, basketry, drumming, and dancing into their workshops and community events. These activities are more than just artistic expressions—they are essential to passing down the knowledge and skills that define Canneci identity.

“Our culture is also art. The things we do, like the pottery, the basketry, our dances, our songs, it’s all intertwined,” Cougar explains. Through workshops and community gatherings, he ensures that these traditions are kept alive and vibrant.

Overcoming Challenges

Securing a permanent space for Canneciville has been a significant challenge. Bureaucratic hurdles, land acquisition issues, and financial constraints have all posed obstacles. However, with the support of the National Performance Network (NPN), Cougar and his community have managed to rent a space in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, where they conduct workshops and display artifacts.

The community’s support has been instrumental in overcoming these challenges. “The support is awesome. It does my heart good,” Cougar shares. The workshops, especially those involving pottery and traditional ceremonies, have seen enthusiastic participation from both children and adults, highlighting the community’s desire to reconnect with their roots.

A Vision for the Future

Cougar has ambitious plans for the future of Canneciville. He envisions a fully functional tribal affairs office, a museum space, and areas dedicated to traditional practices like pit firing pottery. He also hopes to foster collaborations with other indigenous tribes and create a space that welcomes cultural exchanges and showcases the rich heritage of indigenous peoples.

“We’re turning that wheel,” Cougar says optimistically about the ongoing efforts to secure a permanent space for Canneciville. He dreams of a place where the Canneci people can freely practice their traditions, host cultural events, and educate others about their history and culture.

Advice for Aspiring Community-Based Artists

Cougar’s journey is a testament to perseverance and dedication. His advice to other artists looking to engage in community-based work is simple yet profound: “Don’t give up. Be humble. Persevere.” He emphasizes the importance of staying resilient in the face of adversity and staying true to one’s cultural roots.

Personal and Professional Growth

Working on Canneciville has profoundly impacted Cougar, both personally and professionally. It has taught him patience, resilience, and the importance of passing down knowledge. By involving younger members of the community in the process, he ensures that the wisdom and traditions of the Canneci people are not lost but continue to thrive.

As Cougar navigates the complexities of land acquisition, cultural preservation, and community engagement, his unwavering commitment serves as an inspiration. Canneciville stands as a testament to the power of art, culture, and community in preserving the legacy of the Canneci people.

For more information about Canneciville and to stay updated on their events and initiatives, you can visit their website at cannecitinne.com and follow them on Facebook.