Wrapped in Tradition

“Wow,” is what I said when entering the museum. “What cool photos, blankets, and glass work!” I think anyone can appreciate the photos, trade blankets, and glass works of Dale Chihuly that can be found in the Wrapped in Tradition: The Chihuly Collection of Native American Trade Blankets exhibit. I was amazed at the eighty vintage Native American trade blankets, the large black and white photos, and the numerous pieces of original artwork from Chihuly’s Blanket Cylinder series. I was particularly interested in the trade blankets. The multicolored blankets with breathtaking designs can be universally appreciated for the craftsmanship and overall appearance. Each blanket had unusual, complex designs. It seems like each blanket probably took a year to make. For these reasons alone, I really enjoyed viewing and analyzing each blanket. However, I further appreciated the trade blankets after learning the importance of the trade blankets in Native American culture. The Native Americans found inspiration in the natural and spiritual world around them. They incorporated their surroundings in these multi-colored blankets. Most of them have a lot of red in them. I’m not sure what that meant, but I am interested if someone could tell me. In the 1800s, these blankets were objects of power, prestige, and potential for Native Americans. The blankets could also be used as symbols for peace. “…Handling of a blanket became a signal for peace,” Meriwether Lewis (an American settler) wrote in his expedition journal in 1805. American trade blanket companies began using Native American design elements in new combinations and colors, and their blankets became part of Native American ceremonial life. It is interesting that commercial enterprises began recreating and changing the Native American blankets for profit. I think the contingent factors of the blankets are necessary to fully appreciate the importance of these trade blankets. The blown glass collection was also spectacular. Chihuly crafted these pieces of art from 1975-1995. The blankets on the glasses portray the unique colors, patterns, and textures found in the Native American trade blankets. Putting the blankets and the blown glass in the same room creates and interesting dialogue between Native American traditions and contemporary art.