Emily Waheneka

Emily Waheneka (1919–2008) was a Native American artist, of Warm Springs, Wasco and Paiute tribal heritage.

Waheneka is a beadworker in the Sahaptin traditions, her original designs embody the Warm Springs tradition. The Sahaptin peoples include the confederated tribes on the Yakima, Warm Springs, and Umatilla reservation. During her lifetime, she was influenced by her mother and grandmother's beadwork, and was an active participant in Waashat religion, community, and culture. She is known for her beadwork and other sewn crafts. The range of her work included beaded contoured bags, tobacco pouches, ceremonial buckskin dancing attire such as wing-dresses and ribbon shirts, as well as designs for Pendleton coats.

By 1805, beads, which were introduced by Europeans, played an important role in the local trade economy for many Native peoples. Trade beads came in a wide range of colors allowing Native American artists to experiment. Sahaptin peoples developed their own distinguishing beadwork identified by a simplified, bold designs.

By teaching and counseling, Waheneka kept alive the visual arts traditions and history of her people.  Her work is represented in numerous private collections, and in the permanent collections of The Museum at Warm Springs in Oregon and the Museum of Northwest Art. She taught traditional Native bead working, and was certified by the Native American Arts & Crafts council.