Native American Festival to feature artists, culture Nov. 15 at Renaissance Center

Release Date: 10/28/2008. Expired: 11/15/2008

The Renaissance Center will host a Native American Festival on Saturday, Nov. 15, featuring a Showcase of Native Artists in a mixture of both culture and fine art. Admission is free.

There will be exhibits and demonstrations in the rotunda 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and a brief theatrical production in the Performance Hall.

This event will provide an opportunity for local American Indian artists to not only showcase their works, but also to educate the public by exhibiting examples of their many diverse talents.

The festival will offer a combination of visual arts, literary works, music, dance and theatre.

It will feature the talents of such noted artists as potter and sculptor Mary T. Newman (Cherokee) and writer Charles Robinson (Choctaw), author of The Silent Voice of Creation.

“This is sure to be an event to remember and a true learning experience for anyone interested in the culture, history and talents of these exceptional artists,” said Penny Plumlee, instructor of visual arts classes based on Native American culture at The Renaissance Center. “Not only will there be examples of modern work, but there also will be an opportunity for visitors to view examples of traditional art. Many people don’t realize that what most consider today to be beautiful works of art such as pottery and woven baskets are actually items that were originally born out of necessity for use in everyday life.”

Visitors also will have the opportunity to experience the talents of several local dancers and musicians, and to hear the stories and history behind many of their dances and songs.

One of the event’s highlights will be the music of the Nashville-based Southern Powwow Drum, Tanasi Thunder, which includes members from such diverse backgrounds as Cherokee, Creek, Paiute, Miwok, Seminole and Shawnee.

The evening will conclude with a short production in the Performance Hall based on the writings of noted author and storyteller Anne Dunn (Ojibwe), who has worked locally for years sharing her talents and telling her stories as only she can.

This event will have something for everyone and is sure to be a memorable learning experience for the entire family.

For more information on the Native American Festival or for information on becoming involved, contact Plumlee at (615) 945-8088 or plumindiandesigns@yahoo.com.

The Renaissance Center is a fine arts education and performing arts center at 855 Highway 46 South in Dickson, just 35 miles west of Nashville on Interstate 40 at exit 172.

Visit the Events page for more about events at The Renaissance Center.

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