Over the weekend we were a part of the Native American Art and Culture celebration downtown. We diligently promoted it but it was a smaller turnout then we’d have all liked. However, the folks that were there were great, great people and we all had a lot of fun. The art was beautiful and I was proud to have a few pieces alongside nationally known artists.
The Aztec dancers took my breath away. Their astounding headdresses and clothing were mesmerizing. When they blew into sea shells creating a sound that stirred my soul, I moved to the edge of my seat. The drumming was intense and quick and my heart beat fell in line with these ancient dances. Danny, one of the dancers, expressed his appreciation for arts. For arts allow us to keep traditions alive. I have always been a huge proponent of the arts for they teach, they bring hope, they bring people together, they let us express our innermost knowledge, joys, feelings, angst, and creation.
The children dancing stole my heart. Their small feet were like hummingbirds as they skipped and danced the dances their grandparents danced. The Medicine Heart dancers are a troupe of young dancers. This non-profit program teaches youth with any indigenous/Native ancestors the dances of their people so that they won’t be lost. Miss Maryjane Rose will be joining these sweet dancers.
My friend, Rodney, brought out his karaoke system and it was like no karaoke show we have done before! Songs, drumming, children singing, poetry, and voices of expression filled the room. An amazing flute player played his beautiful songs for us. I am hoping Bear might come play at the shop!
We had our glowing medicines out to show people what I do. We connected with people and enjoyed our family and friends there.
I encourage you to paint, draw, write, dance, sing, and support arts by attending festivals, celebrations, and encouraging everyone to find their art, for there they will find their true self.
Since I moved to the Pacific Northwest, I’m surrounded by the reservations and the various tribes that call the Puget Sound region home. I’m so curious about their cultures, their medicines, and their spirituality. Most of the tribes out here are viscerally connected to Mount Rainier and the beautiful lands that surround that towering volcano. It’s fascinating to see how they fear and revere the mountain and utilize the land surrounding it to sustain their way of life. (One example: the women of one tribe collects bear grass inside the national park in order to weave baskets.)