The Wyoming State Museum invites the community to join in their annual celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Day on Monday, October 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This special event honors the rich cultures and contributions of Indigenous peoples, blending art and science to showcase the complex ecological knowledge of Rocky Mountain and Great Plains Native communities.
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with Northern Arapaho artist and ecosystem scientist Colleen Friday as she demonstrates her nature-inspired artwork. Friday, whose artistic journey began with her family's beadwork traditions, creates pieces that fuse many mediums while incorporating her studies in rangeland ecology and biodiversity.
The day will also feature hands-on learning experiences in ethnobotany, the study of how humans use plants. Angelina Stancampiano, Shoshone District Interpretive Ranger for Wyoming State Parks and member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, will guide participants in creating their own seed bombs to take home and will teach about the important role plant life plays in human culture.
Additionally, attendees can join a coloring workshop led by Lauren Amanda Garrett, an Eastern Shoshone multidisciplinary artist. Garrett's ongoing project, "Native American Flower Fairies," aims to enhance Native representation in fantasy art and will inspire creativity among both children and adults.
The main attraction will be live performances from Jasmine Pickner Bell, a world-champion hoop dancer and member of the Crow Creek Dakota Sioux Tribe. Pickner Bell will perform alongside her family members at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM.
"We are excited to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day with an engaging lineup of activities that highlight the intersection of art, science, and Indigenous culture," said Melisa McChesney, Curator of Community Engagement. "This event is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to learn and expand their perception of Native peoples in our region."
Event Details:
What: Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration of Art and Science
When: Monday, October 14, 10 AM - 3 PM
Where: Wyoming State Museum, 2301 Central Ave, Cheyenne, WY
Cost: Free and open to the public
About Wyoming State Museum:
The Wyoming State Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the state's natural and cultural history. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and special events, the museum aims to foster a deeper understanding of Wyoming's diverse heritage.
Photo caption: Eastern Shoshone artist Lauren Amanda Garrett will provide opportunities for guests to color pictures from her "Native American Flower Fairies" series.