Considerations on This Year’s Theme: “Art and Craft”

As in past years, we have chosen a theme for 2025:

“The Archaeology of Art & Craft”.

We acknowledge that the words “art” and “craft” carry various meanings, many tied to western ideas, some less so. Our goal is to focus on how the skills of the traditional artisan and master craftsman are reflected both in the archaeological record and in the living heritage art forms and traditions passed down through generations. We encourage you to reflect on ways to celebrate, honor and communicate some of this complexity to our visitors as you put your exhibits and activities together this year.  

This Roadshow aims to honor and celebrate the heritage and history of Art & Craft.  The focus is educational, rather than commercial; and we are not allowing sale of items. Please feel free to promote your work, letting visitors know how they could purchase pieces outside of our event.

Here are some prompts:

Exhibit that showcases plants, minerals, other natural resources that are used in making dyes, fiber arts, hide tanning, ceremonial objects, etc.

Storytelling through rock art, beaded design, fiber art design

Changes in design and materials used in traditional basketry/clothing/beadwork 

The art and craft of tool making

Art and Craft in ceremony- food preparation and storage, seasonal ceremonies, clothing, instruments

Art and Craft of music making- instruments? Dance?

Use of historic art and design in solving archaeological mysteries (china patterns, colored glass, etc)

How do we find art in the archaeological record? What sorts of art do we find here?