Native American Style Works

I have always been deeply fascinated by other cultures; in particular, Native American. I love thier teachings, and workmanships, thier stories, wisdoms and more. Learning about symbolisim and totems fueled my desire to learn how to recreate some of the things they've made. My initial goal was to express myself with natural materials such as fur and bone and to create a dream catcher that reflected my totems and represented who I was.

Dream Catchers

Dream Catchers were first made of willow branches formed into a circle and a web of sinew was tightly bound within the hoop. These were placed over children as they slept. In time the willow branches would dry out and the sinew webbing would cause the hoop to collapse; this was a sign of coming to age. Adult dream catchers were made from more resilient materials and are crafted to reflect the totems and 'good medicine' of a person.

Talking Sticks

The Talking Stick is used in many Native American Traditions when people may gather to talk. It allows everyone to present their Sacred Point of View. The Talking Stick is passed from person to person as they speak. Only the person holding the talking stick is allowed to talk. Those not speaking must listen closely, so when their turn comes, they do not repeat unneeded information or ask impertinent questions. Indian children are taught to listen from age three forward; they are also taught to respect another's viewpoint. This is not to say that they may not disagree, but rather they are bound by their personal honor to allow everyone their Sacred Point of View.

Talking Sticks typically have an Answering Feather, normally from the plume of an Eagle. A symbol of the intermediate region between things of the spirit world and the earth; Eagles are seen as being messengers, guides and sacred guardians. The Answering Feather is also held by the person speaking unless the speaker addresses a question. At that time, the Answering Feather is passed to the person asked to answer the query.

Spirit Shields

Spirit shields guard the household it rests in from evil and are often leather or hide streched within a hoop. They can be painted and decorated in innumerable ways. Much like a Dream Catcher- feathers, bones, stones, beads, fur and much more adorn Spirit Shields. Tribe or family colors and symbols can be depicted as well as totems, elements, directions(North, South, East, West) and more.

Spirit Sticks

Spirit Sticks are often used at gatherings and special occasions. They reflect the clan's colors in its bead work, but its features also can define its owner. The bells call to spirits and the webbing collects the good spirits. The Medicine Wheel represents the four sacred directions. The hand-sewn leather pouch can be filled with whatever the owner desires.. perhaps something from one of their totems or something of representation, a small carving or bit of bone or wood from a special tree... animal fur, teeth or claws.. perhaps incense or herbs.