Editor’s note: The exhibit is here in NYC until 2017, so don’t worry if your child is not old enough yet–you have plenty of time to check it out!
Now that fall is in full swing and children everywhere are learning about the harvest while celebrating Thanksgiving with their families, the conversation always turns to Pilgrims and Native Americans. We search out their stories, eat the kinds of food that originated with Native American tribes, and seek out objects associated with early life in America.
But looking at objects, as beautiful and fascinating as they may be, does not build a whole picture of who used them and how they were worn or used. In my mind, museums often lack the context for the art works presented in their exhibits. So the show Circle of Dance at the National Museum of the American Indian comes as a very welcome and meaningful addition to the exhibition list of museum shows this season.
The museum has presented ten significant dances from various Native tribes, such as the Yoreme of Mexico, to showcase their colorful beauty and splendor. Each dance is represented by a mannequin dressed in the full costume of the dance. For example, we can’t help but be astounded by the alluring nature of the Hopi Butterfly dance of northern Arizona with its vibrant feathered high-rising headdress. Each item is also accompanied by a high-definition media piece set behind the doll to present the performance in all its colorful, action-packed choreography.
This is a wonderful exhibition to take children of all ages to as it truly brings the traditions and the costumes to life. The museum will also organize live dance performances to supplement the exhibition.
Circle of Dance, National Museum of American Indian
Gustav Heyes Center
One Bowling Green
October 6-October 8, 2017
Natasha Schlesinger is an NYC mother of three. She is the founder of Artmuse, which offers interactive art tours to both kids and adults, and the co-founder of ArtXplorers, a multimedia arts website for kids.
