An Ancestral Art: Wampum | Spotlight

Step into the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture and history by way of an interview with Iroquois artisan, Ken Maracle. Through Maracle’s story, we delve into the cultural and historical significance of wampum, a traditional art form of the Indigenous peoples of the Northeastern region of the United States.  

Wampum bead pieces, often taking the form of belts and strings, serve a multifaceted role in Indigenous society. They were traditionally used as a memory aid in the retelling of oral traditions, as well as to symbolize one’s social status and formalize cooperative alliances. With the influence of European colonialism, wampum also became a currency to be used in trade. 

Join us as we explore the world of wampum and gain a deeper understanding of its enduring cultural importance.