Native American cultural artifacts rarely seen in this region are going on display at The University of Akron's Center for the History of Psychology. The objects are part of the Jim and Vanita Oelschlager Collection.
"Drums, Tomahawks and the Horse: Native American Cultural Tools" opens Saturday, Sept. 7, with a reception from noon to 4 p.m. UA's Center for the History of Psychology is at 73 College St., near in downtown Akron. Both the exhibition and the reception are free.
"The opening celebration will begin with a traditional Lakota blessing and song by Joey Tiger," said Dr. Lynn Metzger, research associate of the UA Department of Anthropology and Classical Studies. "Native American Lakota traditional dancers will perform with regalia and drums in order to remind us the sacred traditions are still alive. Demonstrations of atlatl throwing and flint knapping will connect us back to prehistoric tools."
The exhibit features drums, tomahawks, shields, headdresses and other tools related to Native American life and the use of the horse. It highlights artistic expression in objects such as beaded moccasins, painted buffalo robes, decorations with porcupine quills and ledger drawings.
These cultural artifacts represent tools used during the late 1700s to the early 1900s and will be placed in a historical context with maps and timelines of selected events of change in the lives of Native Americans.
Running through Feb. 15, 2014, the exhibition is open Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call 330-972-7285 or visit the Center for the History of Psychology online.
Story by Tyeal Howell
Media contact: Sarah Lane, 330-972-7429 or slane@uakron.edu.