CULTURE
Living Treasures Program Brings Native American Center to Life
A carving of an Eagle Kachina dancer on display at The Native American Educational and Cultural Center®. An Eagle Kachina dancer takes part in ceremonies to appease their supernatural beings and offer the goods they possess. Photo by Andy Greenman.
W
by Andy Greenman
hile tourists leave the hills for the season, there’s no better time to explore The Indian Museum of North America® at Crazy Horse Memorial. The museum holds a permanent collection of over 11,000 art objects and artifacts representing indigenous peoples from all over the world. Within the museum, The Native American Educational & Cultural Center® (NAECC) is more than just an exhibit hall. Built from the rock blasted from the memorial itself, the center serves to preserve native culture, heritage, and history. The NAECC® is where history comes to life. Artisans from all backgrounds and disciplines come to share their craft with the public and provide a hands-on cultural exchange that is unique for every visitor. “It is the chance to see some one-of-a-kind things,” says Curator Andrew Dunehoo. 28
E L E VAT E R A P I D C IT Y OCTOBER 2020
