Creation

Elk head horn spoon, Lakota, cow horn,
ca. 1900, MHS 1982.44.24

Why do people create? For some of us, it is a necessity—much like breathing. It helps to answer something in the soul, helps to buffer the current of daily life. I find it interesting that we find beautiful utilitarian objects throughout our collections, and life. Europeans considered American Indians uncivilized because they didn’t have “art”—and yet everyday objects were often embellished and decorated. Corn husk baskets woven with pattern, spoons carved, quill work dyed and patterned—natural pigments used to add pattern to clothing or items, shells, animal teeth, and feathers used to ornament and embellish clothing and other items. Metal and glass beads, buttons and fabrics were readily assimilated and incorporated on clothing, bags, moccasins, saddles, and what have you. This horn spoon has always captivated me.