Department of Tourism
For Immediate Release: Sept. 7, 2001
Contact: Shirley Quaintance or Art War Bonnet, (605) 334-4060

AMERICAN INDIAN CULTURE CELEBRATED AT ART SHOW

The Northern Plains Tribal Arts Show and Market, one of the nation’s most reputable showcases of American Indian traditional and contemporary art, will take place in Sioux Falls Sept. 27-30.

The art extravaganza showcases American Indian traditional and fine art. Artists representing the 33 Northern Plains tribes exhibit their work promoting cultural awareness of their distinctive heritage and traditions.

The event begins Thursday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m. with free community forums presented by nationally known art experts: Carolyn McArthur, Marsha MacDowell, Kay WalkingStick and Bently Spang. The forums will be held at four locations.

On Sept. 28 at 7 p.m., visitors can attend the Preview of Juried Art Show Winners and Artists Reception at the Old Courthouse Museum. Award-winning pieces will be available for purchase.

During Market Days, Sept. 29-30, at the Ramkota Inn Exhibit Hall, visitors experience the spirit of Northern Plains Indians. They have the opportunity to view and purchase artwork, ranging from beadwork to quilts and paintings to sculptures. Artist demonstrations, storytelling and traditional hand-game demonstrations enhance awareness of American Indian culture and traditions. Traditional foods, dancing and singing add to the celebration.

On Saturday at 7 p.m., a "wacipi" or powwow, held at the University of Sioux Falls, features top Northern Plains drum groups and dancers competing in traditional, fancy, jingle dress and grass dance categories.

Special booths set up during Market Days include South Dakota Urban Indian Health Inc. (free blood and glucose testing), Children’s Home Society, High Plains American Indian Initiative, "Heartdreams and Legends" – Australian Aboriginal and Northern Plains Cross Cultural Program, and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board.

For a complete schedule of events, contact American Indian Services Inc. at (605) 334-4060. www.aistribalarts.com.

The Northern Plains Tribal Arts Show and Market was created to promote cultural awareness of the native people of the region. The event has been designated a "Great Event" by the South Dakota Department of Tourism. With that designation, the department provides assistance to event coordinators as well as creates and funds promotions for the event. The objective of the Department of Tourism’s "Great Events" program is to boost attendance at events and to increase economic impact in host communities.

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