AKWESASNE -- An Akwesasne artisan is being honored with a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship.

It is the United States' highest honor in folk and traditional art, according to a news release from Traditional Arts in Upstate New York.

Henry Jake Arquette, a Mohawk basket maker, is also recipient of TAUNY's North Coutnry Heritage Award.

It is the first time a North Country artist has received the NEA award. He will be recognized at a September ceremony in Washington, D.C. that can be streamed live.

TAUNY says Arquette’s North Country Heritage Award describes him as “one of a very few Mohawks who continue to make utilitarian baskets of hand-pounded black ash splints and is considered by many at Akwesasne to be the best. An ironworker who spent much of his adult life working in construction of bridges and skyscrapers in eastern cities, Henry learned to make baskets from his father, who encouraged him to keep the tradition alive. Once he retired, he took up making baskets as a hobby and soon was in demand as a teacher of others at the reservation. Dozens have taken his classes over the years. His baskets are known for their strength and durability.”

“The 2014 NEA National Heritage Fellows are recognized for their artistic excellence and efforts to conserve America’s culture for future generations….These artists, musicians, culture bearers, and advocates have dedicated their lives to their art—mastering the artistic skills needed and preserving the cultural traditions while also using their own creativity to push the boundaries of their respective art forms,” according to the NEA press release.

TAUNY is hosting an exhibit of Arquette's work in honor of his receiving national recognition.

To learn more about the National Heritage Fellowships and Arquette’s nomination, visit http://arts.gov/news/2014/nea-announces-lifetime-honors-recipients.