End of season celebration a success

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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, located about two hours south of Calgary, was full Nov. 25 as its last special event of the season was coupled with free admission.

The show labelled Heritage Through My Hands was not only a look at traditional Indian crafts, but was also an occasion to see traditional dancers, hoop dancers and others perform.

The afternoon show, hosted in the main level area by Peigan Nation Chief Peter Strikes With A Gun, included hoop dancing by Alex Wells from Vancouver. Wells, on a national tour, has been dancing for 11 years. He impressed the largely Native crowd with his hoops and his dance, which told the story of the creation of life.

In the galleries, tables were set up displaying Native crafts from the nearby Blood Nation, as well as further north and including the Siksika Nation.

Artisans gave hands-on demonstrations of working on beading and leather purses.

Indian tacos and buffalo stew served in the cafeteria rounded out the day's heritage experiences.

Heritage Through My Hands began 13 years ago when the interpretive centre opened its doors. The event highlights the talents of nearby Natives as well as urban Aboriginals and some from south of the border.

"The exhibit is a chance for Native people to display their Native crafts and for non-Natives to see the talents in the area," said Louisa Crow Shoe, special events officer at the centre.