North
America
North America is home to hundreds of indigenous nations who
settled the continent during the earliest years of human history.
The woman pictured in this tile scene is from the Blackfoot
Confederacy, or Niitsitapi. The Blackfeet Nation, Kainai Nation,
Piikani Nation, and Siksika Nation are all Blackfoot indigenous
groups in Canada and the USA who came together to create a
confederacy because of shared culture and language.
The woman in this tile scene is performing the Fancy Shawl
Dance, which began in the 1920s as a form of peaceful resistance
when the American Government banned tribal dances. Today,
men and women from all over the continent travel to compete
in the colorful dance, creating elaborate routines and intricate
costumes that include shawls that mimic butterfly wings.
When selecting your own fabric you can use earth-tones, or even
vibrant dyes found within the earth such as indigo and vegetable
dyes! However, you can also stick with the more modern and
neon color ways that are used today.
For more information on the Blackfeet Nation in the United States and
their important role in America currently, visit: BlackfeetNation.com.