Ceremonial Rattles

Medicine men called shamans were believed to have supernatural powers, including the ability to communicate with other realms.  A shaman could control the weather, predict the future, bring success in warfare or hunting, cure disease, and find those who were lost.

Aleut Hunting Hat

These beak-like hats were incredibly beautiful, especially when viewed from above as the Russian fur traders did when they looked down from their ships at the kayaks full of Aleut seamen. The ancient art was lost for many years but the hats are now being made again with authentic brilliant colors and carved forms. The hats are fun to make and wear.

Eskimo Spirit Mask

The Yupik Eskimos on the Bering coast made incredible art objects for daily use and ceremonies. Once the mask had served its purpose it was burned or thrown away - they were only perceived as theater props...not great art forms to be displayed. The masks were worn on the forehead tipped toward the back of the head. Our paper mask is nearly as sturdy as the light weight wooden ones.

Dentalia Shell Jewelry

A white tube-like shell call dentalium was prized by the Athabaskans and was valued as money. They traded their fine beaded objects with coastal Indians who gathered the shells. A wealthy Athabaskan woman or man did not brag of their worth - they wore it lavishly. Try your own adapted jewelry.