TRAVELING MEDICINE SHOW 2008 - 2009
A Collaborative Project by the Hockaday Museum of Art
and Artists / Educators of the Blackfeet Indian Nation

The Traveling Medicine Show is an educational project that brings the ancient, traditional, and contemporary art, history, and culture of the Northern Plains Indians to life for K-12 students. It features art and artifacts chosen in a collaborative effort between the Hockaday Museum of Art and members of the Blackfeet Indian Nation. An essential goal of this program is to instill appreciation and understanding of the culture and history of the Plains Indians of Montana through art created by and about them.

The program brings artifacts, display materials, hands-on activities, and members of the Blackfeet Nation themselves directly to students. Participating classes explore the history, culture, and traditional practices of the Northern Plains Indians and discover how each has influenced the other across time and territory. Project name courtesy of Darnell Rides at the Door, Blackfeet Nation. SCHOOL VISITS The Traveling Medicine Show outreach program is available to classes and schools in NW Montana. This program is designed to accommodate any grade from K-12th. Whenever possible, the presentation includes an art project taught by a Blackfeet artist.

A Museum representative accompanies The Traveling Medicine Show to all destinations, and we strive to have Blackfeet artists at all Traveling Medicine Show visits. Should road conditions or other factors beyond our control preempt our artists’ presentation schedule, specially trained Hockaday Museum Staff will facilitate the Medicine Show. Minimum setup time for art and artifacts is 70 minutes; therefore, we ask that you please make one location in your school available for all presentations. A second location for art projects or activities may be necessary, depending upon room size and number of students participating in the program.

PRESENTATION FOCUS The Traveling Medicine Show 2008-2009 offers choices in the focus of our presentations, adapted to grade levels: A General Overview of the exhibits; Home on the Plains -- Tipi-making, tools, cooking, family life; Games that teach life / social / survival skills and cultural values; Clothing in daily living and special events. PRESENTATION FORMATS Classroom group presentations for small groups, medium groups and large groups. Time allotment, student totals, and room arrangements are tailored to the needs of your school. Please select which focus and format you wish on the form. Click Here for a Printable Request Form