Regalia of the Spirit Dog: Material Culture of the American Indian Horse

a 2 hour symposium exploring Crow, Paiute, and other Plains Indian horse equipment.

Marin Museum of the American Indian presents
"Regalia Of The Spirit Dog:
Material Culture Of The Indian Horse"
Afternoon Symposium, 3-5 PM, February 22, 2003
Embassy Suites, San Rafael

The Marin Museum of the American Indian presents an afternoon symposium on "Regalia Of The Spirit Dog: Material Culture Of The Indian Horse", 3-5 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Embassy Suites in San Rafael, Ca.

When the Sioux first saw the horse they compared it to the dog, shunka. Based on their experience, the Sioux named the horse Shunka Wakan which could be interpreted as "Big Dog," "Enchanted Dog," "Holy Dog," or "Spirit Dog." American Indians in different regions developed distinct styles of horse regalia.

This event explores Plateau, Plains, and Southwest American Indian horse equipment, including blankets, bridles, and saddles. Scholars and artists in the field will discuss beadwork, textile patterns, and more. Bill Holm presentation is entitled Elegant Parade: Crow and Plateau Women's Festive Horse Gear and Bud Lake will talk about The Well Dressed Crow Horse.
There will also be demonstrations of the traditional art forms.

The symposium is held in conjunction with the 19th Annual Marin Indian Art Show & Sale, the largest event in the country featuring both contemporary and historic Native American art from both continents.

Co-sponsored by KR Martindale Show Management, which produces the Marin Indian Art Show and Sale, the afternoon event is a benefit for the Marin Museum of the American Indian and donations will be accepted.

The Marin Museum of the American Indian is the only museum in the San Francisco Bay Area devoted exclusively to Native American from all regions. It's goal is to promote an awareness and understanding of Native American history and culture, and offers a range of programs, including Camp Coyote for children, "Tales Around the Campfire", educational symposiums, and the current Kachina (Hopi Dolls) exhibit, as well as an ongoing display of rare indigenous toys, artifacts, and tools.

For more information, call 415-897-4064 or visit www.marinindian.com.