Tag: Native American Art

Gourd Ornament Workshop @ Institute for American Indian Studies – December 21

Discover the traditional art of gourd crafting at an in-person workshop on Saturday, December 21 at 1 p.m. at the Institute for American Indian Studies located in Washington, Connecticut. Gourds have been a staple in the Americas for over 8,000 years, serving various purposes from rattles and drink ware, to birdhouses and drums. Today, they shine as unique decorative pieces like vases and ornaments.

Now it is your turn to transform a gourd into a stunning ornament. Join the IAIS educators for an enjoyable weekend workshop where you’ll dive into the fascinating world of gourds and create a unique, eye-catching ornament to take home. This isn’t just any craft session—it’s a hands-on adventure with wood burning tools, recommended for participants aged 7 and up.

Hurry, space is limited! Secure your spot by pre-registering on our website https://iaismuseum.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/21315. Participation Fee (including materials): $10 for IAIS Members; $20 for Non-Members. For more information, questions or to pre-register events@iaismuseum.org.

Ignite your creativity and make this holiday season truly memorable!

About the Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits, and a replicated 16th century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains and extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two eyed seeing,” visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates the more than 12,000 -year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.

JanetLeave a comment

Twined Art at the Institute for American Indian Studies

The exhibition Woven from Milk Weed by Wabanaki Artist Vera Longtoe Sheehan opens at the Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington Connecticut runs through May 31, 2013. There is no charge for this exhibition. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 12 noon to 5pm. The last admission is at 4:30 pm.

Idle_No_More_Bag_001

Vera Longtoe Sheehan is a fiber artist who follows in the footsteps of her ancestors. When she was young, her father started teaching her how to harvest and process plants to make cordage. He also taught her the various techniques that she uses to make twined bags, baskets and textiles.

Vera combines her tribal and family knowledge with many years of researching Wabanaki history, culture and tradition to create her one of a kind twined woven items. She uses both hand-rolled and commercially rolled plant fiber cordage. Each of the hand items can take hours, days, weeks or even months to complete.

Idle_No_More_Bag_003

Her twined art is environmentally friendly because it is made from plants, which are quick growing, renewable resources. She is currently teaching her children to twine, so that this endangered art form is not lost. Some of her twined bags, baskets and textiles have appeared in films and literature.

The artist and her family reside in Vermont. She offers a variety of programs for schools, museums and historic sites.

Quiver_036

“Meet the Artist” Reception is Sunday, April 7th from 1pm -3pm. The reception includes refreshments at 2pm.

For more information about the Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Rd. in Washington CT call 860-868-0518 or visit www.iaismuseum.org. For area information www.litchfieldhills.com.

JanetLeave a comment