East Hampton Historical Society is presenting a new exhibition entitled
INDIGENOUS
co-curated by Grace Grimes and Stacy Myers.
————————
Starting in fall 2023, students began a cumulative interdisciplinary approach to studying cultural and natural history during the school year. The East Hampton Historical Society taught students about Indigenous peoples of North America and Eastern Long Island following state and national curricula. Students from Amagansett School, John M. Marshall Elementary, the Ross School, Project MOST, and the Marine Explorers Program at the East Hampton Town Marine Museum examined artifacts, identified plants, and explored topics, such as natural resources, patterns in nature, archaeology, anthropology, and natural and cultural history.
————————
The students cumulative and interdisciplinary work in the exhibit focuses across three art mediums found in Indigenous peoples: weaving, beading, and pigment-making. Through the intentional use of foraged and recycled materials including natural resources from surrounding lands, community donations of textiles and yarn, and the Historical Society’s unique artifacts and collection, this exhibition upholds artistic integrity while remaining committed to environmental stewardship.
————
“At the core of this exhibition lies the commitment to fostering dialogue about Indigenous displacement and injustices and the exploitation of our natural resources across Long Island. By deepening our understanding of history, we take vital steps toward a more equitable and sustainable future,” said Stacy Myers, Director of Education at the Historical Society.
————
“We’re excited for visitors to engage with Indigenous history and celebrate the achievements of local students,” said Grace Grimes, Education Assistant at the Historical Society. “As part of community engagement, students independently constructed models of traditional homes found across North America–from the longhouses and wigwams in New York to plankhouses in the Pacific Northwest–showcasing the diversity of Indigenous dwelling structures.”
————
The exhibition is on display at Clinton Academy, 151 Main Street in East Hampton. Monday through Friday from 10:00AM to 3:00PM through the end of the month.
