Pair of Moccasins c. 1890

These moccasins were made by an A'aninin (Gros Ventre) artist, using tanned hide and glass beads. Look closely, and you can see how the artist carefully stitched each tiny bead to the hide, creating intricate geometric patterns in white, red, pink, and blue. The choice of materials speaks volumes. Hide, of course, represents a direct connection to the natural world and the skilled labor of preparing animal skins. But the glass beads? These were trade goods, introduced by Europeans. Their presence tells a story of cultural exchange and the complex relationship between indigenous communities and colonizers. Consider the sheer amount of work involved in making these moccasins. From hunting and tanning to the meticulous beadwork, every step requires skill and patience. This isn't just footwear; it's a testament to the enduring power of craft, a tangible reminder of the labor, resourcefulness, and creativity embedded in everyday objects. Approaching it in this way helps us to dissolve the artificial boundary between art and craft.