Native talents to be displayed

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The talents of local Native people will be showcased this month at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre.

The annual Heritage Through My Hands show is slated for Nov. 25, with 20 tables to display Native arts and crafts.

"It's a popular event," said Louisa Crow Shoe, special events officer at the centre. Admission is free and the event attracts as many as 500 visitors.

Heritage Through My Hands began 13 years ago when the centre opened its doors. The event highlights the talents of First Nations people from the nearby communities of the Peigan and Blood nations, as well as the Blackfeet across the border in Browning, Mont. Urban Aboriginals also come from Calgary and Edmonton.

"Many return year after year," said Crow Shoe. "They keep coming back because they enjoy supporting the centre and they get good service."

The day also proves to be fruitful for the artisans who sell and interpret their work.

There will also be entertainment with dancing and drumming from the Blood and Peigan reserves.

"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 Crow Shoe.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre is located in southwestern Alberta, off Highway 2, about 20 minutes northwest of Fort Macleod.