Trade Blankets / Fancy Dance Garments

February 9th, 2009

Design/Maker: Brian Jungen
Date: 2008

Photo: Brian Jungen

For this project “I wanted to start with the idea of team colours, and regalia. I began to research competitive dancing at Canadian powwows. I have been to several over the years (not the urban tourist sort). I have always liked the Fancy Dance competition because it is a uniquely untraditional tradition. That is, it was invented in the early 20th century to appease a non-native audience who felt the traditional dances did not seem colourful or indian enough to an imagined sense of war dances portrayed in popular actions of the time. The dancers will often create outrageous garments in bright colours, and it is a highlight of many gatherings. The dance is a sport for sure”.

-Brian Jungen

Entry Filed under: Textiles