Beadwork in Iroquois Life explores the artistic, cultural, economic and political significance of beadwork in the lives of Iroquois people. This 4,000 square foot travelling exhibition also examines the fascinating ways in which beadwork has been used to cross cultural boundaries and create a dialogue between Native and non-Native peoples. Visitors can meet beadworkers from the Iroquois communities of Kahnawake, near Montreal, and Tuscarora, near Niagara Falls, on video and get to try their hand at interactive beadwork activities.
Displays explore the meaning of distinctive motifs and show how beadwork is made.
Visitors learn about the innovative style of beadwork developed by the Iroquois during the mid-nineteenth century. More than five years in the making, Across Borders takes visitors on a moving journey of discovery - an exploration of how the art of placing thousands of tiny glass beads on fabric is intimately linked to the identity and survival of Iroquois people.