The Native American Art of Horse Masking
"The horse is an icon of Plains Indian culture - an indispensable companion in times of peace, and a fearless ally in times of war".
- from the book, A Song for the Horse NationUpon the introduction…
Tribe Scribe
Artist OJ Laier III: Reviving the History of Native American Warrior Societies
Awakening the spirit of pre 1840s Plains Indian Buffalo Culture, the work of non-Native artist OJ Laier III is inspired by this extraordinary time in history and carries with it his innate love of and…
Sculpture Honors Women in Lakota Culture
During the summer season (or anytime during the year when the weather's nice) when people are out and about enjoying a stroll along our beautiful downtown area, we are often asked about the sculpture…
Native Dresses Tell a Story
"More than mere articles of clothing; they [dresses] are canvases for the expression of tribal culture and personal identity. At each stage of life, exquisitely sewed clothing enriched the lives of…
July's Featured Piece: Buffalo Robe with Sunburst Design
During the summer solstice, just before the sun climbs above the horizon, the buffalo constellation is visible among the stars…so it seems only fitting that Lynn, our Native Gallery director would…
The Heart & Soul of the Lakota: The Buffalo
At the core of the Lakota culture is the buffalo or Tatanka. For thousands of years, the lives of the Buffalo Nation and the Lakota people were spiritually and physically interconnected - as herds roa…
The Native American Cradleboard, More Than Just a Baby Carrier
Native children were adored. From their first baby cradle to the clothes they wore when they began to walk, and the toys and dolls they played with, these exquisite items expressed the family's deep l…
Native American Art: The Beauty of the Buffalo Horn Cover
Every now and then we get a piece that speaks volumes about the old ways of the Lakota…and artist James Little Wounded never ceases to amaze! Of all the incredible pieces he's presented to us over…
Native American Art Show: Red Cloud Indian School
Traditional art forms are experiencing a rebirth - they are alive, they are thriving, and the annual juried art show at the Red Cloud Indian School is a testament to this rejuvenation.Now in their 44…
The Return of the Thunder Beings
In the sacred Black Hills, the Lakota ceremonial season begins with the Return of the Thunder Beings (known as Wakinyan to the Lakota people) and is announced by the presence of thunder, lightening, a…
Beadwork Artist Kevin Fast Horse: Staying True to His Lakota Roots
Renowned for his intricate beadwork designs, artist Kevin Fast Horse is well known for his ability to effortlessly blend traditional Native American beading techniques with contemporary imagery and fu…
War Shirts: The Embodiment of the Native American Warrior Spirit
War shirts are powerful, sacred garments imbued with deep cultural meaning; they embody the fearless Native American warriors who once wore them.The right to wear a shirt of this caliber could only be…