April Stone

April Stone is a Lecturer of Basketry at Northland College, where she has been actively engaged in teaching and preserving black ash basketry traditions since 1998. She holds a Certificate in Natural Resources Technician from Northland College and has deep roots in northern Wisconsin, including her upbringing on the Bad River Reservation. Her work bridges art, culture, and education, emphasizing hands-on learning and the therapeutic value of basketry.

As a Native Arts and Cultures Foundation Fellow and Minnesota Historical Society Artist in Residence, Stone has expanded her influence nationally, exploring basketry techniques and cultural narratives across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and beyond. Her research focuses on the entire lifecycle of basket creation—from raw material sourcing to finished products—and integrates students into every phase of the process.

Stone’s career is marked by her dedication to cultural preservation and community engagement. She has traveled extensively to study basketry collections and collaborates with institutions to highlight Indigenous artistry. Though Northland College closed in 2025, her legacy there remains tied to empowering students through tactile, culturally rooted education.