Photos taken by Tina and Laurie
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Tina Larkin-BlackI have been interested in the spiritual connection of dream catchers
for over thirty years. I believe in the power of dreams and wanted to protect my children from bad dreams; therefore all bedrooms were equipped with a dream catcher to ensure calm, peaceful nights. Dream catchers are still a staple in my home long after the children have moved out. Laurie LaycockI made a dream catcher when I was a child, and I still have it hanging in my room. I was curious about the meaning behind the dream catcher, and how it's related to spirituality. Through learning about the dream catcher, I also learned about indigenous crafts and a I can support artisans in our community.
ReferencesResearch for this project consisted of information obtained from two
books: Canadian Aboriginal Art and Spirituality: A Vital Link by J.W. Friesen and V.L. Friesen (2006) and Dream catchers: Legend, Lore and Artifacts by C. Oberholtzer (2012). Tina also visited the Grey Eagle Gift Shop at the Grey Eagle Casino and the White Eagle Gift Shop at the Gas Stop on the Tsuu T'ina reserve. Both locations offer Native crafts obtained from nations in both Canada and the United States. Tina and Laurie visted a third location: Moonstone Creations in Inglewood. The cozy, welcoming shop offers authentic Native crafts are made in-store or obtained from local artists. Moonstone also offers classes to learn how to make your own dream catcher as well as other crafts. We found the people at all locations very friendly and willing to share with their knowledge of dream catchers or artisans who make them and allowed us to take pictures of their store fronts and displays. Overall we found this experience very interesting and expanded our knowledge of Native crafts and local artisans. |