BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION Native Roots Continued from page 122 The imagery of the buffalo, or tatanka, is prominent in most all Lakota works. These massive six-foot tall creatures, weighing up to 2,000 pounds, are worshiped as a sacred animal. From spoons to tipis, buffalo provided virtually everything the Sioux Indians needed for their existence. Its spirit is praised before every hunt, and every part that isn’t used for food is put to use in other ways. Sioux Pottery is a large supplier of decorative ceramics that are handcrafted by Native American Sioux Indian artists using red clay from the Black Hills. The artists have skillfully adapted Sioux symbols into the unique decorative designs of Sioux Pottery, expressing the spirit and culture of the Lakota people. Sioux Pottery vases make wonderful gifts and are great for Native American home decor. Visit their factory in Rapid City where you can meet the artists and see the process from start to finish. Visit the area’s most extensive collection of Plains Indian art, crafts and jewelry at Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries . The two-story, historically restored building in downtown Rapid City houses an arts and crafts gallery, fine art gallery, bookstore and unique crafts supply center. The greatest gift you’ll take home is the experience. One mile south of the Badlands, Native West Trading Company specializes in contemporary and traditional arts and crafts from local Lakota artists. They’re eager to help you add an authentic piece to your collection allowing you to share your knowledge and appreciation of Native American art. New pieces are added to the gallery daily, ranging from contemporary to historical works. 124 // #DiscoverBlackHills MUST-SEE STOPS South Dakota’s reverence for its rich Native culture is celebrated throughout the western part of the state. Located near Pine Ridge, The Heritage Center at Red Cloud Indian School houses an extensive collection of prize-winning paintings and sculptures, as well as historical and contemporary Lakota art, including beadwork and porcupine quillwork. The center is open year-round. Admission is free to take in the impressive works. Stop into the on-site gift shop and browse the astounding variety of authentic Native American art. The store buys directly from local artisans and consciously works to support their craft. Tour the historic campus where Chief Red Cloud is laid to rest with Lakota Culture and Art Tours at Red Cloud Indian School . Each summer, the center hosts the world-renowned Red Cloud Indian Art Show. It is the largest and longest running Native American art show of its kind in the country. It’s one of only a few held on an Indigenous reservation hundreds of miles from any urban area. The show attracts thousands of visitors to view impressive works of art by seasoned Native American professionals alongside young artists just beginning their careers. The show runs from June 1 to Aug. 11, 2019, showcasing more than 150 pieces in a variety of categories. All artwork in the show is available for purchase. Two museums at Crazy Horse Memorial ® honor the living heritage of the North American Indians. The INDIAN MUSEUM OF NORTH Native Roots Continued on page 126
South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide 2019: Page 124
