Unique exhibition captures essence of Blackfoot way of life
Gatineau, Quebec, October 7, 2004 - The Blackfoot Way of Life: Nitsitapiisinni, an exhibition that presents the history, culture and identity of the Blackfoot people, will open at the Canadian Museum of Civilization (CMC) on October 8, 2004.
This exhibition is the result of ten years of collaboration between staff of the Glenbow Museum in Calgary and leaders and teachers from the four Blackfoot communities, and it tells the story of the Blackfoot people from their own perspective. The Blackfoot Way of Life: Nitsitapiisinni aims to help visitors understand what it means to be Blackfoot.
"This exhibition will give visitors a rare opportunity to better understand one of the largest First Nation communities in Canada," says Dr. Victor Rabinovitch, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation. "It will provide valuable insight into the rich and diverse way of life of these people."
The Blackfoot Way of Life: Nitsitapiisinni presents more than 140 artifacts, including story robes, objects used in daily life and exquisite quills and beadwork. Using videos and soundtracks in recreated environments, the exhibition explores the fundamental belief system of the Blackfoot, including their traditional stories, sacred places, dances and ceremonies. The Blackfoot Way of Life also examines the Blackfoot relationship with governments and looks at the importance of uniting ancient traditions and modern challenges to ensure the survival of the Blackfoot legacy.
The Blackfoot Confederacy is made up of four Nations: the Siksika, the Kainai and the Northern Piikani in Alberta, and the Southern Piikani (or Blackfeet) in Montana. The traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy extends from the North Saskatchewan River to the Yellowstone River and from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains to the Sand Hills of western Saskatchewan.
Travelling constantly across the Northern Plains, hunting game and collecting plants, the Blackfoot knew every detail of their land. The Blackfoot Way of Life: Nitsitapiisinni recreates the sights and sounds of the Blackfoot territory. Visitors will be able to listen to traditional stories and personal experiences told by the Blackfoot themselves. They will learn how the Blackfoot people lived before the arrival of Europeans, and how contact with the new settlers affected their lives.
Previously on display in Rotterdam, in the Netherlands, and in Manchester, England, The Blackfoot Way of Life: Nitsitapiisinni will be at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec from October 8, 2004 to February 13, 2005. The CMC is the only North American venue for this travelling exhibition from the Glenbow Museum.
FACT SHEETS
Media Information:
Media Relations Officer
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: (819) 776-7169
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: (819) 776-7167
Fax: (819) 776-7187
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