Curriculum Materials: Art in America
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Image 14 Lakota Questions: |
Think Questions
1. Tell the story of turtle's association with creation in Lakota culture. Women beaded turtle MOTIFS on their dresses, leggings, bags, and on cradleboards and AMULETS for their baby girls. Why do you think turtle is associated with women in Lakota culture?
2. The characteristics of a turtle were prized by Lakota people. Wome aspired to be like the turtle and hoped their children would also take on the qualities of the turtle. What qualities do turtles have that women might want for themselves and their children?
3. Lakota mythology surrounding the turtle has to do with the creation of the world. Can you think of another popular story about a turtle? What qualities were associated with that turtle? Can you think of other animals that exhibit qualities people find desirable?
4. This Lakota dress was made to be worn while dancing. If we were to see it as it was meant to be used, we would hear music, the beads would reflect the light, the bells would jingle, and the fringe would swing and sway with the dancer's movements. Is it possible for us to appreciate this dress as a work of art even though we cannot see it being worn in a dance? Why or why not? Would we appreciate the dress more if we could see the dress on a dancer? Why or why not?
5. Do you have a garment that you wear for special occasions? Of what materials is it made? How is it decorated? What kinds of activity are you involved in when you wear it? What features of the garment identify you as part of a special group, family, or nationality?
6. Compare and contrast the Lakota Woman's Dress and Cadzi Cody's Painted Hide. What material do these two have in common? What was each used for? What are the basic differences between the designs? What do you think the designs on each object show or mean?
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