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Native American chokers were initially used as neck protection during battle but later developed into a form of ornamentation and ceremonial dress.
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Native American Rose Figueroa, an Apache-Blackfoot, learned traditional crafts from her mother and now passes the techniques on to her children and grandchildren. Believing that every heritage is important , Figueroa also teaches classes in her community and at the Southwest Museum of Native American Art in Pasadena, California. Through sharing her own culture, she hopes to promote understanding and appreciation of all cultures. For the Figueroas, re-creating their heritage is definitely a family affair. Anything used in daily Native American life -- even decorative items or pottery -- is re-created to match the original in both design and purpose. Because nature holds great importance within the Native American culture, natural elements are always incorporated into all pieces, including animal skins, muscle fiber, and shells, bone or horn. Each member of the family has a unique talent: - Figueroa's grandchildren start with simple beading projects, while she prefers more intricate jewelry and clay sculpture (including masks).
- Daughter Lisa Figueroa creates authentic ceremonial dresses from deerskin. She researches, designs and sews the dresses to be as authentic as possible. When completed, intricate beadwork is added.
- Figueroa's son, Victor, hand-carves musical instruments, pipes and bows. To create a bow, he says, wood is cut away until a natural bow effect can be seen . Then he shaves the wood to create a bend before carving additional details .
RESOURCES :
The American Indian Craft Book
Model: 0803258917
Author: Marz and Nono Minor
The Book of Indian Crafts and Indian Lore
Model: 0486414337
Author: Julian Harris Salomon
Traditional Indian Crafts
Model: 0943604133
Author: Monte Smith
North American Indian Beadwork Designs
Model: 0486407136
Author: Clark Wissler
Indian Handcrafts, Revised Edition
Model: 0762706619
Author: C. Keith Wilbur
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