"Native Skywatchers – Earth-Sky Connections," a Community Art Exhibit, opens May 1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and runs through May 24. Learn about Ojibwe star knowledge in an exhibit featuring paintings, wood carvings, and ceramics created by local community members who participated in a Native Skywatchers art workshop. Each work of art weaves together art, science, and culture in relation to the stars and Earth. This exhibit is offered in partnership with Native Skywatchers and the Minnesota State Arts Board. The cost is free, but does not include museum admission.
Quillwork Earrings Workshop Saturday, May 5, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before trade beads, the Ojibwe primarily used quills to adorn their clothing and tools. Learn to apply porcupine quills to birch bark to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind earrings to take home. A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required three days prior to the workshop. A minimum of five participants is required. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $40. Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) and Mille Lacs Band members save 20 percent. $10 supply fee.
Kid Crafts – Shoulder Bag Saturday, May 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn how to decorate an Ojibwe-style shoulder bag to take home. Allow an hour to make the craft. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Cost: $7/kit, museum admission not included.
"Patriot Nations: Native Americans in Our Nation's Armed Forces" Exhibit tells the remarkable history of the brave Native American and Alaska Native men and women who have served in the United States military.
The exhibit opens Friday, May 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. with light refreshments and a presentation. As part of the program, AMVETS Post 53's Color Guard will also honor newly inducted veterans to the honor wall in the museum. The event is free, but museum admission is not included. The exhibit is on display through September 3.
Native peoples have participated in every major U.S. military encounter from the Revolutionary War to today's conflicts in the Middle East, serving at a higher rate in proportion to their population than any other ethnic group.
The contributions of Native servicemen and women have been largely unrecognized. The Patriot Nations exhibit announces the development of the National Native American Veterans Memorial, requisitioned by Congress to be placed on the grounds of the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC.
This exhibit is presented in 16 full-color banners, plus additional banners developed by MNHS with content about the efforts of Native Americans from Minnesota and the surrounding area.
"Patriot Nations: Native Americans in Our Nation's Armed Forces" is produced by the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian. The exhibition was made possible by the generous support of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
For more information or to register for any of the above classes, call 320-532-3632 or email millelacs@mnhs.org. Click here for Memorial Day weekend events.