Prairie State Wire

Visitors can now explore two new exhibits at the Illinois State Museum's Lockport Gallery, focusing on Native American cultural traditions in Illinois and the Midwest. "Minohsayaki ‘Painted Robes'" tells the story of collaborative efforts by the Peewaaliaki (Peoria Tribe) and Myaamiaki (Miami Tribe), alongside non-Native scholars, to reconnect with their historic practice of hide painting. This exhibition was supported by a grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation through the Humanities Without Walls Consortium, administered by the University of Illinois. It was initially displayed at Miami University's Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum in 2024 as part of the Reclaiming Stories project.

Accompanying "Minohsayaki" is "Indigenous Beadwork of the Great Lakes: Selections from the Illinois State Museum Permanent Collection," showcasing beadwork by Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) artists from around the early 20th century. The exhibition highlights beadwork as a form of resilience and a way to express and maintain identity.

"This is the first time in many years these beaded objects will be on display, and we are thrilled to pair this exhibition with ‘Minohsayaki' to share the important work of reclaiming cultural practices and sustaining those practices in the face of difficult circumstances," said Brooke Morgan, curator of anthropology at the Illinois State Museum.

The exhibitions will run until September 6 at the Lockport Gallery located at 201 W. 10th St., Lockport. For further information, visitors can call 815-838-7400 or visit online. Admission is free.

The Illinois State Museum was established in 1877 and serves as a dynamic institution aimed at exploring Illinois' past and present to enrich everyday life while promoting stewardship of cultural and natural resources. It has its headquarters in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is a member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.