Sunday, February 6, 2011

Hoopin' It Up at the Heard

Elementary school students throughout the Phoenix area take a field trip to the Heard Museum to learn about Native American arts and culture. I must have been absent that day.




The Heard Museum has been a landmark in Central Phoenix for more than 80 years. It's known worldwide for its extensive collections, changing exhibits and festivals celebrating the Native American people. The annual Hoop Dance Contest is among its most popular. Held every February, it is in its 21st year. Native American men and women from across the U.S. and Canada take part in the world championship competition.






If you are unfamiliar with the hoop dance, it incorporates speed and agility, as the dancers manipulate their bodies through one or more than 50 hoops. The most talented will incorporate creative designs and difficult maneuvers, as their feet keep time with the beat of the drum. It's an impressive and beautiful dance to see. Equally impressive are the colorful costumes the dancers wear. No two are alike.








Yet, the museum also offers something interesting to see. The Heard collects and exhibits centuries-old American Indian art, along with works from more contemporary Native American artists. Two stunning exhibits, only at the Heard for a limited time, were Preston Singletary's contemporary glass works and Jesse Monongye's amazing Navajo jewelry. Another powerful and ongoing exhibit is "Remembering Our Indian School Days: The Boarding School Experience," which examines the system of off-reservation Indian boarding schools and how the Native American children were removed from their homes and stripped of their culture, identity and language.


With more than 130,000 square feet of galleries, class rooms and performance area, you can easily spend an entire day at the Heard Museum. There is so much to do and see. Plan your lunch at its well-recommended Cafe, or if you are lucky -- like me -- you can enjoy Indian Fry Bread in the main courtyard.
Whether you are a tourist, new to the Valley or a long-time resident, you should take a trip to the Heard Museum. It's internationally renowned collection of Native American art and cultural pieces, along with its changing exhibits and full schedule of events will always offer something new to see. I'd better plan a another visit.