Colorful Pagentry on Display Lakota Artisan Creations Symbolism unique to the Sioux is weaved throughout Lakota artwork. Human images are often paired with wild animals, stemming from their belief that all of the Great Spirit’s two-legged and four-legged creatures are related. Other pieces may depict mystical experiences, ancestral spirits, or illustrate Wankan Tanka’s omnipotent guidance. Many artists showcase their creative vision by incorporating both traditional and modern influences. Two museums at Crazy Horse Memorial® honor the living heritage of the North American Indians. The Indian Museum of North America® and The Native American Educational and Cultural Center® feature American Indian art and artifacts from tribal Nations across North America. They offer guests the opportunity to be hands-on with “make and take” activities. In the summer, visit with Native American artisans, watch American Indian dancers perform and learn more through the Talking Circle Speaker Series. Culture and Art Tours at Red Cloud Indian School. Each summer, the center hosts the world-renowned Red Cloud Indian Art Show. Running over 50 years, 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. 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 6 to Aug. 9, 2020, showcasing more than 150 pieces in a variety of categories. All artwork in the show is available for purchase. Gain a deeper understanding of the Lakota way of life at the Oglala Lakota College Historical Center. Located on the Oglala Lakota College campus, visitors can view historical photographs and artwork, accompanied by an audio recording that depicts the tumultuous history of the Oglala Lakota from the early 1800s through the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. The White River Visitor Center is located about 20 miles south of the town of Scenic in the south unit of Badlands National Park, where SD Hwy 2 intersects with SD Hwy 27. The Center is open during the summer months, featuring fossils, a video program, and Lakota exhibits and artifacts to learn more about Sioux culture. To learn more about Lakota culture and events, visit blackhillsbadlands.com/lakota. MUST-SEE STOPS South Dakota’s 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. Visit 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 BlackHillsBadlands.com // 45 BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS REGION
South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide South Dakota Vacation Guide 2020: Page 45
