ok, i have developed a sincere interest in native american beadwork. heres the question...

do you think it would be offensive if i try to learn (going to local classes at the native american college given on saturday for free) how to make such beautiful pieces?? i am really afraid that by stepping into that class, somehow i am going someplace i dont belong...

what about powwows? are they open to the public? or am i again going to feel very uncomfortable when i get there? can anyone shop at a reservation??

i dont want to offend anyone and i cant figure out how to find this stuff out...hoping someone here would know.

thanks

I based my degree show collection on Native American Indians and incorporated alot of traditional Beadwork and Prints and feathers in my footwear.

I did alot of beadwork for it, takes ages, but is so worth it and researched in depth for this.

I dont think there should be a problem, I think they would be happy you taking an interest in it and are inspired by their talents.
[Edited 4/21/08 10:13am]
[Edited 4/21/08 10:13am]

If your intention is one of respect and honour I see no problem with it

I have been involved in Native culture for yrs and I have seen both ends

Some tribes have issue with it and some do not - again honour and respect is a big part of it I find on both the ends

REDFEATHERS said:

thanks red
i am truely blown away by some of the lovely beadwork i have seen lately, its so intricate - you can tell the level of skill it took to put them together...

i just didnt want to offend, thanks again
btw, i would love to see something you finished, i bet its great!

Mach said:

thanks mach

nakedpianoplayer said:

they are all stored away.. but when I get to them I will take photos and upload them for you

nakedpianoplayer said:

We spent yesterday @ Mohegan Sun Casino and saw Stevie Nicks in concert there last night The huge bead work panals inside were amazing

The Mohegan Tribe http://www.mohegan.nsn.us/

nakedpianoplayer said:

I think it's great that you want to learn more about the culture and no it would not be offensive at all to do so, to attend powwows, I do so annually and have for the last 20 years.

Check with the band office as to taking the class and a powow.

As for the free classes, if it's open to anyone, take it!

I don't think anyone would have any problem with you learning how to do the beadwork.
It would be okay to borrow techniques and elements of their work just don't try to sell your work as authentic Native American crafts.

You would be more than welcome at pow wows. They are almost always open to the public and are a lot of fun.

Yes anyone can shop on a reservation, you can get some great deals there, and some beautiful artwork too.

shellyevon said:

did you know there is a special law against that?? i mean, it would be wrong of course.... but this is different, it breaks some law that makes it worse than selling fakes of a different nature.

thanks for the help

so lovely....

nakedpianoplayer said:

Anyone who wants can learn to do beadwork, though some bands have certain sacred symbols, so if you're unsure if the design's okay, just ask.

Powwows are generally open to the public. There are exceptions where it's a special occasion, like a potlatch, in which case an invite is needed.